Botswana’s Historic Find: A 2,492-Carat Diamond
Botswana, a country renowned for its rich diamond reserves, has once again made headlines with the discovery of a massive 2,492-carat diamond. This exceptional gem, unearthed at the Karowe Mine, is the second-largest diamond ever found, surpassed only by the legendary Cullinan Diamond discovered in South Africa in 1905.
The newly discovered diamond, still unnamed, weighs approximately half a kilogram and was presented to the world at a ceremony led by Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi. The President expressed his awe at the sheer size and quality of the stone, calling it an “overwhelming” discovery.
Lucara Diamond Corp.: Leading the Way in Major Finds
Lucara Diamond Corp., the Canadian mining company operating the Karowe Mine, has been responsible for several significant diamond finds in recent years, including the Sewelo diamond, which was previously the second-largest mined diamond at 1,758 carats. It was found using the Mega Diamond Recovery (MDR) X-ray Transmission (XRT) technique.
Revolutionizing Mining: The Role of X-ray Transmission Technology
XRT is a non-destructive method used to visualize the internal structure of diamonds and other precious stones. By passing X-rays through the ore, it creates images that reveal the presence and size of valuable minerals. This technology has transformed diamond mining, enabling more precise and efficient extraction of large gems.
Ensuring Precision: XRT’s Impact on the Recent Discovery
In the case of Botswana’s recent discovery, XRT played a crucial role in identifying the diamond within the ore body. The advanced imaging capabilities of the XRT system enabled miners to pinpoint the exact location of the gem, minimizing the risk of damage during the extraction process. This technology also helps ensure that valuable diamonds are not overlooked, contributing to the overall economic benefits of the mining operation.
