A record-breaking yellow diamond weighing 163.91 carats has been unearthed at Gem Diamonds’ Letšeng Diamond Mine in Lesotho. The diamond, which is still in its rough form, is the largest yellow diamond ever mined in Africa and the fifth-largest yellow diamond in the world.
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The diamond was discovered on January 17, 2023, by a team of miners using a remote-controlled excavator. The miners were immediately alerted to the find by the excavator’s sensors, which detected a large object in the ground. The diamond was then carefully removed from the mine and transported to Gem Diamonds’ headquarters in Johannesburg, South Africa, for further assessment.
The diamond is a vivid yellow color with a clarity grade of VS1. It is also free of fluorescence, which means that it will not appear to glow under ultraviolet light. The diamond is currently being cut and polished, and it is expected to be unveiled to the public later this year.
The Discovery of the Diamond
The discovery of the 163.91-carat yellow diamond is a major event for the Letšeng Diamond Mine and for the country of Lesotho. The mine is located in the Mokhotlong district of Lesotho, which is one of the poorest countries in the world. The discovery of the diamond is a significant boost to the economy of Lesotho and is expected to create jobs and generate revenue for the country.
The mine has a long history of producing large diamonds. In 2006, the mine produced a 603-carat diamond, which was the largest diamond ever mined in Lesotho. The mine has also produced a number of other large diamonds, including a 455-carat diamond in 2009 and a 352-carat diamond in 2015.
The discovery of the 163.91-carat yellow diamond is a testament to the quality of the diamonds that are found at the Letšeng Diamond Mine. The mine is known for producing high-quality diamonds, and the discovery of this record-breaking diamond is further proof of its reputation.
The Characteristics of the Diamond
The 163.91-carat yellow diamond is a rare and valuable gem. It is the largest yellow diamond ever mined in Africa and the fifth-largest yellow diamond in the world. The diamond is a vivid yellow color with a clarity grade of VS1. It is also free of fluorescence, which means that it will not appear to glow under ultraviolet light.
The diamond’s color is caused by the presence of nitrogen impurities in the crystal structure. The more nitrogen impurities, the deeper the yellow color of the diamond. The diamond’s clarity grade indicates that it has few inclusions, which are small internal defects that can affect the appearance of a diamond. The diamond’s fluorescence grade indicates that it does not glow under ultraviolet light, which is a desirable trait for some collectors.
The Value of the Diamond
The value of the 163.91-carat yellow diamond is difficult to estimate, but it is likely to be worth millions of dollars. The value of a diamond is determined by a number of factors, including its size, color, clarity, and cut. The diamond’s size alone makes it a valuable gem, but its vivid yellow color and high clarity grade also add to its value.
The diamond is currently being cut and polished, and its final value will depend on the quality of the cut. However, it is likely to be one of the most valuable diamonds in the world when it is finally completed.
The Future of the Diamond
The 163.91-carat yellow diamond is a truly remarkable gem. It is a rare and valuable find that is sure to attract the attention of collectors and jewelers around the world. The diamond’s final value will depend on the quality of the cut, but it is likely to be one of the most valuable diamonds in the world when it is finally completed.
The diamond’s discovery is a major event for the Letšeng Diamond Mine and for the country of Lesotho. The mine is known for producing high-quality diamonds, and the discovery of this record-breaking diamond is further proof of its reputation. The diamond is also expected to generate significant revenue for Lesotho and create jobs in the country.
The future of the diamond is uncertain, but it is sure to be a valuable gem for many years to come. It is possible that the diamond will be cut and polished into a stunning jewel that will be worn by celebrities
