This morning, Lucara Diamonds Botswana proudly presented the world’s largest diamond to President Duma Boko and his cabinet ministers at a special ceremony. The extraordinary gem, weighing an unprecedented 2,488 carats, was discovered in August 2024 at the company’s renowned Karowe Mine, located in the Boteti District.
A Historic Discovery
The massive diamond is the largest ever recorded, marking a significant milestone in the global diamond industry and reaffirming Botswana’s reputation as a leading diamond producer. This discovery builds on the legacy of Karowe Mine, which has yielded some of the most notable diamonds in history, including the famous 1,758-carat “Sewelô” diamond in 2019.
Lucara Botswana’s Managing Director, Naseem Lahri, highlighted the significance of the discovery. “This is not just a triumph for Lucara but a moment of pride for Botswana as a whole. It showcases our advanced mining technology and reaffirms Botswana’s status as a global leader in the diamond industry.”
A Showcase for the New Administration
President Duma Boko and his cabinet were given an exclusive look at the diamond and an overview of the cutting-edge technology employed in its extraction. Lahri explained that the presentation was aimed at fostering appreciation for the work that goes into mining these rare and valuable stones.
“Diamonds of this size and quality are not just rare; they are a testament to the innovation and dedication of our team. We wanted the new administration to see firsthand the scale of our operations and the advanced technology that makes discoveries like this possible,” Lahri stated.
Boosting Botswana’s Economy
The diamond industry remains a cornerstone of Botswana’s economy, contributing significantly to government revenues and job creation. President Boko lauded the discovery, emphasizing its potential to further bolster the country’s economic standing.
“This discovery is not just about its size or value; it represents the promise of what Botswana can achieve with strategic partnerships and innovation. It is a beacon of hope for our economy and a testament to the expertise and dedication of our mining sector,” the president said.
The Future of Lucara Botswana
Lucara Botswana continues to invest in innovation and sustainable practices. The company has pioneered the use of XRT (X-ray Transmission) technology, which enables the recovery of larger diamonds without damage. This approach has been instrumental in uncovering stones of exceptional size and quality, like the 2,488-carat gem.
As the diamond undergoes valuation and analysis, its future remains uncertain—whether it will be sold as a single, polished masterpiece or split into multiple gems. Either way, the discovery is set to make waves in the global diamond market.
A Proud Moment for Botswana
The unveiling of this diamond is a proud moment for Botswana, highlighting the country’s role as a leader in the global diamond industry. It also underscores the importance of fostering collaboration between the government and private sector to unlock the full potential of Botswana’s natural resources.
Lucara Botswana’s presentation today marks yet another chapter in the country’s glittering legacy, promising continued growth and global recognition.
