Botswana has once again made headlines in the world of precious stones with the discovery of a breathtaking diamond that may change gem history. Unearthed at the Karowe mine, the massive stone, named Motswedi—meaning “spring of water” in Setswana—weighs an astonishing 2,488 carats and more than a pound. This find now ranks as the second largest diamond ever discovered, trailing only the legendary Cullinan diamond from 1905.
Currently being analyzed in Antwerp, Belgium, this rough diamond is still under study to determine its full value. But early estimates suggest it could be worth close to $100 million, depending on how much of it can be cut and polished.
Motswedi
Motswedi isn’t just a gem—it’s a symbol of nature’s rarest marvels. Found deep in the Karowe mine, which has become synonymous with world-class diamond finds, this extraordinary stone stands as a geological miracle. The name Motswedi, meaning a spring or underground water flow, is fitting for a diamond that has surfaced from the Earth’s hidden depths.
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It joins an elite group of colossal diamonds and draws attention not only from investors and collectors but also from historians and gemologists around the world.
Themine
The Karowe mine, located in northeastern Botswana, is already famous for producing some of the largest diamonds ever seen. Owned by Canada-based Lucara Diamond in partnership with Belgium’s HB Antwerp, this mine is proving to be one of the most significant diamond-producing sites on the planet.
It’s also where the third-largest diamond, Sewelo (1,758 carats), was found in 2019. And now, with Motswedi, the mine continues to build its legacy as the ground where history is literally dug up.
Antwerp
As with all major finds, the next steps are crucial. The Motswedi diamond is currently in Antwerp, a global hub for diamond processing and trading. Experts there are carefully analyzing the stone’s interior structure to understand what kind of polished diamonds can be extracted.
According to HB Antwerp spokesperson Margot Doquier, “It’s too early to assign a market price. The true value depends on what can be cut from the rough stone.” These early stages are critical, as the stone’s internal flaws or purity will determine whether it ends up as a single gem or is split into multiple stones.
The Value
While its final valuation remains undetermined, experts believe the Motswedi could be worth around $100 million. But beyond its price tag, the diamond carries cultural and historic weight, with the potential to become a centerpiece in a crown, necklace, or even a museum exhibit.
That said, its future could also lie in private hands. As Doquier noted, “It’s possible that a stone like this could end up in a private collection, maybe even with a royal family or a wealthy sheikh.”
Legacy
Botswana has played a central role in the diamond industry for decades, and it shows no sign of slowing down. With every major find, it continues to prove its place as a global gem leader. The country’s responsible mining practices and strong partnerships with international firms ensure that its diamond discoveries gain the attention they deserve.
Let’s not forget the Cullinan diamond—the largest diamond ever found at 3,106 carats—which was discovered in South Africa in 1905. It was later cut into several stones, the most famous of which is the “Star of Africa,” now part of the British Crown Jewels and housed in the Tower of London.
Whether Motswedi follows a similar path or ends up in private hands, it will undoubtedly become part of gemological lore.
What’s Next
So, what happens now? The diamond will continue to be studied in Antwerp, after which decisions will be made about how to cut and sell it—or whether it should be displayed in its natural form. It could be sold at auction, turned into smaller cut stones, or preserved as a once-in-a-century museum exhibit.
For now, its future is still undecided. But it has already made history.
FAQs
Where was the Motswedi diamond found?
At the Karowe mine in northeastern Botswana.
How heavy is the Motswedi diamond?
It weighs 2,488 carats, over one pound.
What does ‘Motswedi’ mean?
It means ‘spring of water’ in Setswana.
How much is Motswedi worth?
It’s estimated at around $100 million, pending analysis.
Who owns the Karowe mine?
Lucara Diamond and HB Antwerp jointly own the mine
