Debswana presented its largest 1,098.30 carat diamond to President Masisi

Botswana has discovered what is believed to be the world’s third-largest diamond. 1,098-carat stone was found by diamond firm Debswana on June 1st and was first showcased in Gabarone to President Mokgweetsi Masisi.

The find is seen as a beacon of hope for the African nation.

“It is believed to be the third-largest gem-quality find in the world,” said Debswana Managing Director Lynette Armstrong.

“the rare and extraordinary stone… means so much in the context of diamonds and Botswana,” said Armstrong. “It brings hope to the nation that is struggling.”

The stone measures 73mm long, 52mm wide and 27mm thick and it is the biggest stone of “gem quality” to be found in the history of Debswana – a joint partnership between the government and De Beers.

The Cullinan is the biggest diamond ever discovered in the world it is 3,106-carat found in South Africa more than a hundred years ago in 1905.

The second-largest was also found in Botswana , a 1,109-carat  diamond the size of a tennis ball – called Lesedi La rona just six years ago in 2015. Currently, Botswana is the leading diamond producer in Africa.

Minerals Minister Lefoko Moagi said the Covid-19 pandemic has hit the diamond industry hard and the discovery of the stone could not have come at a better time.

The Botswana government receives up to 80 percent of the income from Debswana’s sales through various dividends, royalties and taxes.

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Debswana presented its largest 1,098.30 carat diamond to President @OfficialMasisi & Cabinet at the State House, today.#BWPresidency???????? pic.twitter.com/E0h46Yo3mH

— Office of the President| Republic of Botswana. (@BWPresidency) June 16, 2021