Canadian diamond miner Lucara Diamond Corp has recovered an “exceptional” 2 492 ct diamond from its Karowe mine, in Botswana.
Detected and recovered by the company’s Mega Diamond Recovery X-ray transmission (XRT) technology, installed in 2017 to identify and preserve large high-value diamonds, the company notes that this is one of the largest rough diamonds ever unearthed.
It is second only to the 3 106 ct Cullinan diamond, recovered in South Africa in 1905.
The Karowe mine has, in recent years, yielded a number of large diamonds, including the 1 758 ct Sewelô in 2019, the 1 109 ct Lesedi La Rona in 2015 and the 813 ct Constellation, also in 2015.
“We are ecstatic about the recovery of this extraordinary 2 492 ct diamond. This find not only showcases the remarkable potential of our Karowe mine, but also upholds our strategic investment in cutting-edge XRT technology.
“The ability to recover such a massive, high-quality stone intact demonstrates the effectiveness of our approach to diamond recovery and our commitment to maximising value for our shareholders and stakeholders,” says Lucara president and CEO William Lamb.
The 2 492 ct diamond was recovered from the processing of EM/PK(S) kimberlite, the dominant ore type that Lucara will continue to target during the first years of underground mining operations at Karowe.
“This discovery reinforces Karowe’s position as a truly world-class diamond mine and highlights the continued success of our operational and underground development strategy,” Lamb says.
Lucara says this discovery symbolises Botswana‘s continued ascent as a global leader in diamond production, adding that it represents not only the unparalleled wealth found in Botswana‘s soil, but also the remarkable progress the nation has made in developing its diamond industry for the benefit of its citizens.