Debswana Diamond Company have unearthed world’s third-largest diamond in Jwaneng mine of Botswana in South Africa.
Key Points
- Botswana is called as largest producer of diamonds in Africa.
- Diamond weighing 1,098 carats was presented to President Mokgweetsi Masisi after it was unearthed.
- It weighs a little less than world’s second-largest 1,109-carat Lesedi la Rona diamond which was found in Botswana in 2015 and world’s largest 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond which was found in South Africa in 1905.
- Estimation of stone’s final value is not yet released.
- World’s second-largest 1,109-carat Lesedi la Rona diamond was sold for $53 million.
About third largest diamond
Diamond is measuring 73mm long, 52mm wide, and 27mm thick. It is yet to be named.
Background
Debswana company had witnessed a 29 per cent fall in production to 16.6 million carats and a 30 per cent drop in sales amid the covid-19 pandemic. Thus, unearthing of third largest diamond becomes significant.
About Debswana Diamond Company
It is a joint venture between global diamond giant De Beers and government. 80 percent of the income earned by selling of diamonds by Debswana goes to government by means of royalties, dividends, and taxes.