Dominion Diamond Mines recovered the largest known gem-quality diamond ever found in North America. The 552-carat yellow diamond was dug up in October at the Diavik Diamond Mine.
The 552-carat diamond far surpasses the previous record held by the Diavik Foxfire at 187.7 carats, which was also recovered at the same mine in 2015.
The gemstone was uncovered while passing through the initial screening process at Diavik’s recovery plant.
Kyle Washington, Chairman of Dominion Diamond Mines said that this incredible discovery showcases what is truly spectacular about Canadamark diamonds.
“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.”
Measuring 33.74mm x 54.56mm and weighing exactly 552.74 carats, a diamond of this size is completely unexpected for this part of the world stated Dominion Diamond Mines in a press release.
The release stated due to the significance of the discovery, Dominion will select a partner in the coming weeks who will cut and polish the stone. The size and highly technical nature of this stone means that only a handful of master cutters in the world are qualified to polish it.
As the diamond is still undergoing evaluation, the true value of the diamond is still uncertain at this time.
