Gem Diamonds has recovered an “exceptional” quality 910 carat diamond from its Letseng mine in Lesotho, the company said in a statement. The diamond is believed to be the fifth largest gem quality diamond ever recovered.
“Since Gem Diamonds acquired Letseng in 2006, the mine has produced some of the world’s most remarkable diamonds, including the 603 carat Lesotho Promise, however, this exceptional top quality stone is the largest to be mined to date and highlights the unsurpassed quality of the Letseng mine,” said Gem Diamonds CEO, Clifford Elphick.
“This is a landmark recovery for all of Gem Diamonds’ stakeholders, including our employees, shareholders and the Government of Lesotho, our partner in the Letseng mine.”
Gem Diamonds is a global diamond producer. The Company owns 70% of the Letseng mine in Lesotho and 100% of the Ghaghoo mine in Botswana.
The Cullinan Diamond is the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found, weighing 3,106.75 carats (621.35 g). It was discovered in Cullinan, Gauteng in January 1905.
The diamond was cut into 105 diamonds, which included the Cullinan I (Greater Star of Africa) and Cullinan II (Lesser Star of Africa). They both form part of the British Crown Jewels.
Picture: Gemdiamonds.com