The Second-Largest Diamond Unearthed in Botswana

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Second-Largest diamond recently discovered

Just when we thought the Earth had revealed all its secrets, Botswana’s Karowe Mine delivers a jaw-dropping surprise.

Photo of President Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana holding the 2,492-carat diamond via The Washington Post
President Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana holding the 2,492-carat diamond via The Washington Post

A Diamond for the Ages: Botswana Unearths the Second-Largest Diamond in History

This past August, an extraordinary discovery put Botswana’s Karowe Mine back in the global spotlight. Lucara Diamond Corp. uncovered an astonishing 2,492-carat diamond, now officially recognized as the second-largest diamond ever found in Earth’s history. This massive gemstone ranks just behind the famed Cullinan Diamond, a 3,106-carat giant unearthed in South Africa in 1905. The fact that the new Botswana diamond was recovered intact is even more impressive, thanks to advanced X-ray technology that allows mining operations to preserve such massive gems without damaging them.

Botswana has long been celebrated as a major player in the global diamond industry, known for producing some of the largest and most valuable diamonds in the world. This latest discovery is a continuation of that legacy, showcasing the country’s rich diamond-producing potential. Though this incredible stone remains unnamed, it already represents Botswana’s growing role as a leader in diamond mining, a position it continues to strengthen with every new discovery.

Closeup photo of the Botswana Diamond via The Washington Post
Closeup of the Botswana Diamond via The Washington Post

A Brief History of the Cullinan Diamond

To truly appreciate the significance of this new find, it’s important to look back at the only diamond that surpasses it in size—the legendary Cullinan Diamond. Discovered in 1905 at a South African mine, the Cullinan weighed an unparalleled 3,106 carats in its rough form. It was later cut into several gems, the largest of which, the Great Star of Africa, is part of the British Crown Jewels. The Cullinan’s immense size and remarkable clarity have made it one of the most iconic diamonds in history. To read about the full history and discovery of the Cullinan Diamond, check out our blog here.

Photo of staff member Pule Musi holding replica of the Cullinan Diamond via The Washington Post
Staff member Pule Musi holding replica of the Cullinan Diamond via The Washington Post
Photo of Frederick Wells holding the real Cullinan Diamond circa 1905.
Frederick Wells holding the real Cullinan Diamond circa 1905

While the newly discovered Botswana diamond ranks just below the Cullinan, it’s a powerful reminder that even over a century later, the Earth continues to surprise us with its hidden treasures. This latest discovery adds a new chapter to the story of the world’s most incredible diamonds, and we can only imagine what this gem will become as its journey continues.

Stay tuned for more updates as more information about this breathtaking find is revealed!


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