A significant discovery at Botswana’s Karowe mine has revealed a rough diamond weighing 2,492 carats, making it the second-largest diamond ever found. This stone follows the 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond discovered in 1905 and is the largest ever identified in Botswana, surpassing a previous 1,758-carat find from 2019. Lucara Diamond’s use of advanced technology was pivotal in this recovery, underscoring Botswana’s prominence as a key player in global diamond production.
The Karowe mine in Botswana, operated by the Canadian company Lucara Diamond, has recently yielded an extraordinary rough diamond weighing 2,492 carats, marking it as the second-largest diamond ever discovered globally. This significant find surpasses the previous record in Botswana—a 1,758-carat diamond uncovered at the same mine in 2019—and is only second to the historic 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond found in South Africa in 1905. Notably, the Cullinan diamond was subsequently divided into several pieces, many of which are now part of the British Crown Jewels. This remarkable diamond recovery was facilitated by Lucara’s advanced Mega Diamond Recovery X-ray technology, which played a crucial role in identifying this exceptional gem. The government of Botswana officially recognized the stone as the largest diamond ever found within its borders, signaling the nation’s prominent position as a leading diamond producer, contributing approximately 20% to the world’s diamond supply. Lucara’s CEO, William Lamb, expressed the company’s enthusiasm, stating that they are “ecstatic about the recovery of this extraordinary 2,492 carat diamond.”
Botswana is notable for its diamond mining industry, being one of the largest producers of diamonds worldwide. The discovery of diamonds in Botswana has significantly contributed to the country’s economy and stature in the global market. The Karowe mine, known for its remarkable finds, operates at the forefront of technological advancements in diamond recovery, ensuring that even the largest and most elusive stones can be successfully unearthed. The latest discovery of the 2,492-carat diamond illustrates not only the richness of Botswana’s resources but also the effective mining practices employed by companies like Lucara. The significance of these finds is elevated by their historical context, particularly the iconic Cullinan diamond, which continues to influence perceptions about large diamond discoveries.
The discovery of the 2,492-carat diamond at the Karowe mine in Botswana is a landmark event in the world of gemology, further asserting the country’s status as a premier diamond producer. It showcases not only the ongoing potential for future discoveries but also advances in mining technology that enhance the efficiency of locating these precious stones. Lucara Diamond’s successful recovery of such a large gem reaffirms the importance of exploration and innovation within the industry. As Botswana continues to be a central figure in global diamond production, this finding could play a substantial role in its economic landscape going forward.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
