Experts are still unable to value the giant Motswedi diamond, which ranks as the second-largest in the world. Discovered last year in Botswana, the 2,488-carat stone, weighing nearly half a kilogram, is currently undergoing extensive examination in Belgian laboratories. Its final price remains a mystery, fueling considerable interest among both museum curators and private collectors.
A Giant with a Rich Provenance
The Motswedi diamond was unearthed by Lucara Diamond at the Karowe mine, surpassing Botswana’s previous record held by the Sewelo diamond (1,758 carats). Despite its impressive size, Motswedi is still smaller than the world’s largest diamond, the Cullinan (3,106 carats), discovered in South Africa in 1905. Diamonds cut from the Cullinan now adorn the British Crown Jewels, including the famous Star of Africa.
The Fate of a Unique Gem
According to Margot Donkier, a representative for HB Antwerp, experts’ primary task is to determine how many top-quality polished diamonds can be yielded from this extraordinary rough stone. This analysis will ultimately dictate its final price, AFP reports. Motswedi is part of a collection of four large diamonds from the same deposit, whose combined value could exceed $100 million.
Motswedi’s future remains uncertain. Its immense size and historical significance make it an ideal museum exhibit, potentially becoming a public treasure. However, it could also end up in a private collection, acquired by a wealthy individual, such as a sheikh.
NEWSROOM IN notes that Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi was left speechless when the giant Motswedi diamond was placed in his hands. He was so stunned by the miraculous gem that he could only exclaim: “What?!”
