An extraordinary rough diamond weighing 1,094 carats was recovered from the South Lobe of the Karowe Mine in Botswana, revealed mine owner Lucara Diamond Corp. 

The rough, which has striking similarities to a 692-carat stone announced in August 2023, will be polished by HB Antwerp as part of a partnership between the two companies, stated Lucara.

The exceptional size and quality of the current find underscores the unique characteristics of the Karowe ore body. For example, the 692-carat rough cut by HB Antwerp yielded a polished diamond that sold for over US$13 million, the company said.

These discoveries align with its underground expansion project designed to access deeper parts of the South Lobe where the ore type, EMPKS, is prevalent. The mine has been in production since 2012, and the expansion is expected to extend mine life to beyond 2040. 

Meanwhile, the company is focused on securing provenance for its production and has a wholly owned subsidiary, Clara Diamond Solutions Ltd Partnership, that operates a secure, digital sales platform ensuring diamond provenance from mine to finger, added Lucara.