A massive 2,492-carat diamond, believed to be the second-largest ever discovered, has been unearthed in Botswana. The Debswana Diamond Company, a joint venture between the Botswana government and De Beers, found the extraordinary gem.
The diamond, slightly smaller than the legendary Cullinan Diamond (3,106 carats), was discovered at the Jwaneng Mine, one of the world’s richest diamond mines. It is approximately the size of a tennis ball and is estimated to be worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
Debswana Diamond Company officials were stunned by the size and quality of the diamond. “This is a truly exceptional find,” said Debswana Managing Director Jacob Sekgo. It is a testament to Botswana’s rich mineral resources and our mining teams’ skill.”
The diamond will now be sent to Antwerp, Belgium, where experts will assess it to determine its exact value and the best way to cut and polish it. The diamond is expected to be divided into several smaller stones, which will then be sold to jewelers and collectors around the world.
The discovery of the giant diamond significantly boosts the Botswana economy, which relies heavily on the diamond industry. The country is one of the world’s leading producers of diamonds, and the diamond industry accounts for a significant portion of its GDP.
The discovery of the diamond is also a significant milestone for the Debswana Diamond Company, which has been operating in Botswana for over 50 years and has played a major role in the country’s economic development.
The giant diamond reminds us of the incredible power of nature. It is also a testament to diamonds’ beauty and rarity and a symbol of Botswana’s rich mineral resources.