TLDR;
This video explores the extraordinary diamond discoveries in Botswana, focusing on the Leedi La Rona, the Constellation, the Okavango Blue, and the recent 2,492-carat diamond find. It highlights Lucara Diamond Corporation's innovative X-ray transmission technology that preserves these massive stones, Botswana's role in the diamond industry, and the meticulous process of cutting and polishing these gems to reveal their inner brilliance. The video emphasizes the blend of science, artistry, and national pride associated with these discoveries.
- Lucara Diamond Corporation's XRT technology revolutionized diamond recovery.
- Botswana's diamonds symbolize national pride, heritage, and technological progress.
- The cutting and polishing process requires a blend of science, artistry, and meticulous planning.
The Discovery of the Leedi La Rona [0:00]
In November 2015, the Leedi La Rona, a 1,109-carat diamond, was discovered in Botswana's Caro mine, operated by Lucara Diamond Corporation. At the time, it was the second-largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found. Lucara, a Canadian mining company founded in 2007, recognized Botswana's stability and diamond wealth, acquiring the Caro mine in 2012. The Caro mine, named after the Setswana word for "precious stone," is located in central Botswana, a region deeply connected to the country's mining legacy.
Lucara's Innovative Mining Techniques [2:20]
Lucara invested in advanced recovery systems to preserve large diamonds, addressing the issue of conventional mining processes destroying exceptionally large rough diamonds. In 2015, Lucara pioneered the use of X-ray transmission (XRT) technology in large-scale diamond mining. XRT scanners detect differences in atomic density, allowing diamonds to be separated from surrounding rock without crushing. This technology was a revolution, positioning Lucara as a steward of extraordinary diamonds.
The Unveiling and Fate of the Leedi La Rona [5:05]
On November 16, 2015, the XRT machines at the Caro mine detected a massive anomaly, revealing the Leedi La Rona. The diamond, the largest found since the Cullinan diamond in 1905, became a symbol of national pride and technological progress for Botswana. Classified as a Type IIA diamond, it was chemically pure with exceptional transparency. In 2016, Lucara displayed the rough diamond publicly and put it up for auction in London, but it failed to sell initially. Eventually, in 2017, Graff Diamonds acquired the diamond for $53 million.
The Transformation of the Leedi La Rona by Graff Diamonds [7:22]
Graff Diamonds meticulously studied the Leedi La Rona, using advanced imaging technology to map its internal structure. The rough crystal was too large for standard scanning equipment, requiring special methods to visualize its inner world. Graff spent over a year studying the diamond before making the first cut. The Leedi La Rona was eventually cut into over 60 polished diamonds, the largest weighing over 300 carats.
The Constellation Diamond: Discovery and Analysis [11:06]
In 2015, an 813-carat rough crystal, later named the Constellation diamond, was discovered in Botswana. The journey to unlock its inner brilliance required science, technology, artistry, and meticulous planning. The diamond was transported to a state-of-the-art cutting facility, where gemologists, master cutters, and technological experts evaluated it. 3D mapping, advanced imaging, and laser scanning were used to study the gem's interior.
Balancing Weight and Beauty in Cutting the Constellation [13:37]
The greatest challenge with the Constellation diamond was balancing weight and beauty. Experts debated whether to yield one monumental gem or divide the stone into several polished masterpieces. Advanced 3D imaging was used to examine the stone's internal world, mapping inclusions and growth lines. Computer simulations tested various cuts, predicting how light would interact with the diamond. A master plan emerged, balancing precision with restraint.
The Cutting and Shaping of the Constellation Diamond [15:45]
The transformation of the Constellation began with advanced lasers calibrated with computer accuracy. The lasers moved with precision, tracing predetermined paths mapped out during months of study. Each cut was intentional, dividing the diamond into sections strategically chosen to unlock its full potential. The goal was to protect the diamond's clarity and preserve carrot weight.
The Art of Polishing and the Constellation's Legacy [18:46]
Once divided, every fragment was entrusted to master cutters who blended tradition with technology. The shaping process began with bruting and then facing, with each facet designed to capture and reflect light. Hand polishing was carried out on rotating cast iron wheels coated with diamond powder. The Constellation diamond yielded some of the most extraordinary polished gems, including a flawless 313-carat diamond. In 2016, the original rough stone was sold for $63.1 million to Nemesis International.
The Okavango Blue and Botswana's Diamond Heritage [20:57]
In 2018, the Okavango Blue, Botswana's largest blue diamond at 20.46 carats, was discovered. Botswana is renowned for producing remarkable natural rough diamonds with a wide spectrum of carrot weights, clarity grades, and colors. Every diamond discovery in Botswana is a testament to the nation's geological heritage.
The Journey from Rough Stone to Masterpiece [23:51]
The journey of a diamond begins with testing and authentication to distinguish genuine diamonds from synthetic stones. Master planners use 3D imaging and computer-aided design to examine every facet of the stone. Lasers project fine cutting lines onto the surface, guiding the transformation. High-powered lasers and specialized saws then slice through the diamond. Finally, skilled artisans polish each facet to perfection.
The 2,492-Carat Diamond Discovery and Botswana's Enduring Legacy [27:18]
In August 2024, a 2,492-carat rough diamond, the second largest ever discovered, was unearthed at the Caro mine. Recovered through Lucara's XRT technology, the diamond was preserved intact. This discovery symbolizes human ingenuity and national pride for Botswana. Botswana's soil continues to unveil treasures, embodying resilience, innovation, and artistry.