3.1 billion years old diamond found in Canada to exhibit in New York
The diamond is said to be the largest ever unearthed in North America.
Source BBC:
The diamond was found at Diavik Diamond Mine, northeast of Yellowknife in October and measures about the size of a chicken-egg. The 552.7 carat yellow gemstone, measures 33.74mm x 54.56mm, was discovered while passing through the initial screening process at Diavik’s recovery plant.
“This incredible discovery showcases what is truly spectacular about Canadamark diamonds,” said Kyle Washington, Chairman of Dominion Diamond Mines.
“The colour and texture of the diamond are a unique example of the journey that natural diamonds take from their formation until we unearth them. Our Diavik Mine has produced some of the most beautiful diamonds in the world, and this one certainly tops the list.”
“Abrasion markings on the stone’s surface attest to the difficult journey it underwent during recovery, and the fact that it remains intact is remarkable,” the company said in a statement. “A diamond of this size is completely unexpected for this part of the world and marks a true milestone for diamond mining in North America.”
According to the Independent UK, the Diavik Diamond Mine began producing diamonds in January 2003. Rio Tinto, a multinational mining firm based in London, owns a 60 per cent stake in Diavik and Dominion Diamond Mines. Due to the significance of the find, Dominion now plans to select a partner to cut and polish the stone which is currently in its rough form. It has not been determined how much it will be worth after the process but it is said to worth millions.