Extraordinary 2,492-Carat Diamond Discovered in Botswana

The Discovery of an Extraordinary Diamond in Botswana

On Thursday, Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi proudly showcased an astonishing 2,492-carat diamond, a gem so immense that it nearly obscured his face as he held it aloft for a closer examination. This remarkable stone is not only the largest diamond unearthed in over a century but also stands as the second-largest diamond ever discovered, according to Lucara, a Vancouver-based mining company that operates the mine where the diamond was found.

This extraordinary find has generated excitement within the industry, with many mining companies and experts suggesting that it could reignite the waning interest in natural diamond mining. The diamond was unearthed from a relatively small mine located in northeastern Botswana, a site that has a rich history of producing some of the largest diamonds known to humankind. Such valuable gemstones typically emerge as a result of volcanic activity.

Paul Zimnisky, an independent diamond industry analyst, remarked, “All of the stars aligned with that volcanic eruption, and the conditions were just perfect.” The rough diamond is impressively large, easily filling the palm of an adult hand and weighing over a pound and a half. However, its true market value remains uncertain at this stage. According to Mr. Zimnisky, the valuation process for such a unique gem could take several months to complete.