In an extraordinary feat of gemological exploration. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) recently had the privilege of examining one of the largest diamonds ever discovered. Weighing in at a stunning 2,488.32 carats, almost 1.10 pounds (0.498 kilograms). This colossal gem was carefully analyzed in the GIA’s state-of-the-art laboratory in Gaborone, Botswana, in July 2025.
This diamond is of significant historical importance. According to GIA Executive Vice President and Chief Research and Laboratory Officer Tom Moses. “Having examined countless rare and large diamonds in my career, I can confidently say that I’ve never seen a gem-quality diamond of this extraordinary size,” Moses stated.
A Diamond of Exceptional Rarity
Unearthed in August 2024 by the Lucara Diamond Corporation at the renowned Karowe diamond mine in Botswana. This diamond is second only in size to the iconic 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond. Discovered in South Africa over a century ago. Initially weighing 2,492 carats upon recovery, the diamond was affectionately dubbed “the Lucara rough”. Before it was named Motswedi following a public competition in Botswana. The name Motswedi, meaning “water spring” or “source” in the local Setswana language. Pays homage to the life-giving force of water and the discovery’s deep roots in the land of Botswana.
Since its inception in 2012, the Karowe mine has earned a stellar reputation for producing exceptionally large and rare diamonds. This latest discovery reinforces the mine’s standing as a key player in the global diamond industry. Known for delivering diamonds of unparalleled quality.
A Gem Quality Diamond with Unique Characteristics
Dr. Wuyi Wang, GIA’s Vice President of Research and Development, provided further insight into the diamond’s incredible composition. “Our examinations confirmed that Motswedi is a single, gem-quality crystal, a rare type IIa diamond with no detectable nitrogen,” Dr. Wang explained. “This makes it the largest known single crystal diamond in existence. A truly remarkable gem that likely originated from much deeper within the Earth than most diamonds.”
The GIA team’s examination of the diamond, along with 1.50 carats of smaller fragments that broke off during cleaning and initial evaluation by the mining company, revealed some fascinating details. Despite the minor loss of weight, the analysis showed that the Motswedi diamond is comprised of several large, high-quality blocks, each with minimal inclusions, further enhancing its value.
An Ongoing Exploration of Earth’s Treasures
The findings from this groundbreaking analysis will be shared in greater detail through an article by Tom Moses and Dr. Wuyi Wang on the GIA’s official website, GIA.edu. Their thorough examination of Motswedi provides a unique glimpse into the deep, mysterious world of diamonds and their formation under extreme conditions.
With the Motswedi diamond, GIA researchers have not only deepened our understanding of the geological forces that shape such magnificent treasures but also confirmed the extraordinary rarity of diamonds that emerge from the depths of the Earth, marking this discovery as a key moment in the world of gemology.
Leave a reply