The diamond was unearthed at the Karowe Diamond Mine in northeastern Botswana using advanced X-ray technology.
“We are thrilled by the discovery of this exceptional 2,492-carat diamond,” said William Lamb, the president of the Canadian company, as images released show the diamond is as large as the palm of a hand.
The discovery of one of the largest uncut diamonds was made possible through the use of Mega Diamond Recovery X-ray technology, installed in 2017 to identify and preserve large, high-value diamonds.
Botswana is one of the world’s leading diamond producers, with diamonds serving as the country’s main source of revenue, contributing 30% to its GDP and 80% of its exports.
The world’s largest diamond, weighing 3,016 carats, was found in South Africa in 1905.