Record-Breaking Diamonds, the latest in NDC’s Diamond Reports series, explains how advances in technology are fuelling an unprecedented run of spectacular diamond discoveries.
To date, only four diamonds (two gem-quality, one near-gem and one carbonado diamond) exceeding 2,000 carats have ever been discovered – and two of those have emerged in the last two years.
The Cullinan Diamond at 3106 carats
Discovered in 1905 in South Africa, the Cullinan Diamond is the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found.
The Koh-I-Noor Diamond
Originated in India’s Golconda region, the Koh-i-Noor is seen as the first truly monumental diamond on record.
Advanced X-Ray now enables exceptionally large diamonds to be identified early, ensuring they remain intact.
The world’s largest diamonds form far deeper than most others,up to 750km below the Earth’s surface. They are almost always Type IIa, chemically pure and nitrogen‑free surface.
Karowe, Letšeng and Cullinan mines dominate the large diamond discoveries – but why that is remains a mystery.
Credit: © Ilan Taché Photography, photograhed for Groupe Taché and Diamcad
The Hope Diamond
The Hope Diamond is displayed at the world’s largest museum, the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC, where it has captivated more than 100 million visitors, making it one of the most viewed diamonds in history.
The CTF Pink Star 59.60 carats
Sold at auction for $71.2 million,
making it the most expensive diamond to go under the hammer.
The Constellation
Most expensive rough ever sold: 63 Million Dollars for an 813 carat Diamond
Main image : Lesedi La Rona Diamond, rough. Credit: Lucara Diamond
See full Report here
Source : Natural Diamond Council