Botswana Diamond Discovery and Characteristics

Botswana Diamond Discovery

• A 2,492-carat diamond was discovered in the Karowe mine, Botswana, on August 22, 2024. This is the second-largest diamond ever found.
• The largest diamond discovered is the 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond, found in South Africa in 1905.
• The new diamond was discovered using X-ray technology.
• The Karowe mine is known for its significant diamonds, including the 1,758-carat Sewelô diamond, previously the world's second-largest, sold to Louis Vuitton.
• The diamond is expected to fetch tens of millions of dollars.

Diamond Characteristics and Formation

• Diamonds form when carbon atoms are compressed under high pressure deep underground, exceeding 2,000°F (1,093°C) and at depths of over 93 miles (150 km).
• Diamonds are later brought to the surface via volcanic eruptions.
• Many natural diamonds are billions of years old, some exceeding three billion years.

Cullinan Diamond (Example)

• The Cullinan diamond was cut into nine large and nearly 100 smaller gems.
• Two notable Cullinan gems are part of the British Crown Jewels:
  • The 530.2-carat Cullinan I is in the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross, used in every coronation since 1661.
  • The 317-carat Cullinan II is the centerpiece of the Imperial State Crown, worn by Queen Elizabeth II annually for the State Opening of Parliament.

Explore the fascinating discovery of a 2,492-carat diamond in Botswana's Karowe mine, the methods used in its discovery, and the characteristics of diamonds. Learn about the history of significant diamonds, including the Cullinan diamond and how these precious stones form deep within the Earth's crust under extreme conditions.