Botswana has once again stunned the gem world with the discovery of the Motswedi diamond, a massive stone weighing 2,488 carats, almost half a kilogram. This impressive diamond was unearthed last year at the Karowe mine in northeastern Botswana. It is now recognised as the second-largest gem-quality diamond ever found.
The diamond is currently being examined by HB Antwerp in Belgium, the global hub of the diamond trade. As they assess this Motswedi diamond, the firm, which partners with Lucara Diamond Corp, specializes in handling stones larger than 10.8 carats.
Margaux Donckier, HB Antwerp’s public affairs director, explained that valuing the rough stone takes time. “It’s difficult to put a price on it now. We must see what polished diamonds we can cut from it,” she said.
World's second-largest diamond ever is located in Botswana 🇧🇼.
The 2,492-carat diamond was discovered in the Karowe Diamond Mine and is estimated to be worth around $200M.
Former Botswana President Masisi said: "I am lucky to have seen it in my time.” pic.twitter.com/I5uC97VWXj
— Africa First (@AfricaFirsts) September 9, 2025The Motswedi is part of a string of extraordinary finds from the Karowe mine. Four recent diamonds from the site could collectively fetch over $100 million, depending on the quality of polished stones produced.
Karowe previously unearthed the Sewelo diamond in 2019, weighing 1,758 carats, which was Botswana’s largest find until now. Globally, the only diamond larger than Motswedi is the legendary Cullinan from South Africa, discovered in 1905 at 3,106 carats. Pieces of the Cullinan remain part of the British Crown Jewels.
The Motswedi diamond has already attracted attention from around the world. Top museums have expressed interest in displaying it. Meanwhile, wealthy collectors—including royals and sheikhs—are said to be potential buyers. Donckier confirmed that inquiries have already begun.
Its Setswana name, “Motswedi,” meaning “water spring,” reflects both the stone’s beauty and its cultural significance.
Botswana, already one of the world’s leading diamond producers, has used revenue from its diamond industry to fund education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects. The discovery of the Motswedi diamond strengthens the country’s place in global gem history. It also showcases the extraordinary treasures found beneath its soil.
