The world’s second-largest diamond has been found — but where it will end up remains a mystery

A gemstone unlike any other has been unearthed in Botswana. The ‘Motswedi’, which means “water spring or flow of underground water” in Setswana, is a rough diamond weighing over a pound and measuring 2,488 carats, is now officially the second-largest diamond ever discovered.

The find has stunned the gem world. Experts are still studying the stone in Antwerp, Belgium — the heart of the international diamond trade — to determine just how much it might be worth.

It’s too early to put a real market price on it explained Margot Donquier, spokesperson for HB Antwerp, the Belgian firm analyzing and preparing the diamond for sale. First the internal structure and what can be cut and polished from the rough stone must be determined.

A mine that keeps rewriting diamond history

The Motswedi is part of a group of four massive diamonds discovered at the Karowe mine in northeastern Botswana, owned by Canadian company Lucara Diamond in partnership with HB Antwerp.

Remarkably, the same mine also produced the third-largest diamond in history — underscoring Karowe’s reputation as one of the world’s richest sources of extraordinary stones.

Although valuations are still underway, early estimates suggest that this group of diamonds could fetch at least $100 million.

Museum treasure or royal trophy?

The rarity of the Motswedi has sparked a wave of international interest. Its sheer size and singularity make it a natural candidate for display in a major museum. But there’s also the possibility that it could be purchased by a private collector.

“Stones like this are extremely rare. They may well become a museum piece,” said Donquier. “But it is not impossible that it will end up in a private collection, for example, in the possession of a sheikh.”

Botswana’s growing role in the diamond story

Botswana has become a regular player in the world of extraordinary diamond discoveries. In 2019, the country revealed the “Sewelo,” a 1,758-carat diamond, also from Karowe.

The all-time record, however, still belongs to the legendary Cullinan diamond, found in South Africa in 1905. At 3,106 carats, it remains the largest diamond ever discovered. Cut into several pieces, the Cullinan produced the famed “Star of Africa,” now set in Britain’s Crown Jewels and displayed in the Tower of London.

For now, the ultimate fate of the Motswedi — whether showcased in a museum or locked away in a private vault — is still undecided. What’s certain is that its discovery cements Botswana’s place at the center of the modern diamond trade.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.