Gem Diamonds Limited announces the recovery of a high quality 442 carat Type II diamond from the Letšeng mine in Lesotho, the highest dollar per carat kimberlite diamond mine in the world.
Clifford Elphick, CEO of Gem Diamonds, commented:
“The recovery of this remarkable 442 carat diamond, one of the world’s largest gem quality diamonds to be recovered this year, is further confirmation of the calibre of the Letšeng mine and its ability to consistently produce large, high quality diamonds. It is also a fitting testament to the dedication of the employees in the Group to have recovered such an extraordinary diamond, whilst at the same time maintaining strict adherence to health and safety precautions during the global Covid pandemic.
A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this diamond will be used to fund a special community project, as agreed with our partners the Government of Lesotho.”
At an average elevation of 3,100 metres (10,000 feet) above sea level, Letšeng is one of the world’s highest diamond mines.