The discovery of a staggering 2,492 carat diamond has been announced by Lucara Diamond Corp at its renowned Karowe Diamond Mine. This exceptional gem, one of the largest rough diamonds ever found, was unearthed through the Company’s pioneering Mega Diamond Recovery (MDR) X-ray Transmission (XRT) technology. This innovative system, introduced in 2017, is designed to detect and preserve large, high-value diamonds, proving once again its unparalleled capability.
The diamond was extracted from EM/PK(S) kimberlite, the primary ore type targeted by Lucara, as the company embarks on the initial stages of its underground mining operations. This monumental discovery not only adds to Karowe’s legacy as a world-class diamond source but also reaffirms Lucara’s status as a leading producer of some of the planet’s most extraordinary diamonds. It joins a prestigious collection of finds from Karowe, including the 1,758 carat Sewelô and the 1,109 carat Lesedi La Rona.
Lucara’s President and Chief Executive Officer William Lamb expressed his excitement over this remarkable achievement, “The recovery of this extraordinary 2,492 carat diamond is a momentous event for Lucara. It highlights the incredible potential of our Karowe Mine and showcases the strategic value of our investment in cutting-edge XRT technology. The fact that we could recover such a massive, high-quality stone intact is a testament to the effectiveness of our diamond recovery methods and our commitment to delivering maximum value to our shareholders and stakeholders.”
Lamb continued, “This discovery solidifies Karowe’s reputation as a truly world-class diamond mine and underscores the ongoing success of our operational and underground development strategies.” Beyond its mining significance, this discovery also highlights the broader socio-economic impact of Botswana’s diamond industry. The sector plays a vital role in national development, funding essential services like education and healthcare.
This remarkable find not only symbolises the abundant wealth within Botswana’s soil but also exemplifies the nation’s ascent as a global leader in diamond production. It stands as a testament to the country’s continuous progress in harnessing its natural resources for the benefit of its people.