A 1 174-CARAT diamond has been unearthed in Botswana, a mining company announced on Wednesday, trumping another huge precious stone found in the country last month.
The latest find, which fills the palm of a man’s hand, was discovered on June 12 by Canadian diamond firm Lucara and presented to the country’s cabinet in the capital Gaborone on Wednesday.
“This is history in the making, for us and Botswana as well,” said managing director Naseem Lahri, adding the diamond sits in third position among the world’s largest diamonds.
Last month, Botswana diamond firm Debswana said it had recovered the “third-largest” stone in the world at 1 098-carats on 1 June.
The latest find solidifies Botswana as a leader on the world stage of the largest stones, accounting for six in the top 10 list.
The biggest diamond ever discovered in the world was the 3 106-carat Cullinan diamond found in South Africa in 1905.
Parts of that diamond adorn the British crown jewels.
Botswana president Mokgweetsi Masisi welcomed the “riveting moment” and the growing frequency of diamond discoveries in the country, promising that the southern African country will have a long-lasting legacy.
Botswana is Africa’s leading diamond producer.
– AFP
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
