The Canadian diamond producer discovered the rough at Botswana's Karowe mine in August 2024. Later named Motswedi, its weight was revised from 2,492 to 2,488 carats.
Lucara reported the sale as part of its second-quarter results; however, it did not disclose the buyer or the sale price. Named after the Setswana word for water spring, Motswedi ranks only behind the 3,106-carat Cullinan as the world’s second-largest rough diamond.
In February 2025, three museums expressed interest in the diamond. Speculation also arose regarding a potential sale to HB Antwerp under a 10-year agreement signed in 2024. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) described Motswedi as composed of several large, gemstone-quality blocks with few inclusions.
CEO William Lamb previously suggested the diamond may retain greater value if left uncut because of its historical significance.
As recently as July, Lucara announced the recovery of a massive 1,305-carat rough diamond at its Karowe mine. That white diamond was the company’s 10th recovery of a diamond above 1,000 carats since production began at the site. Other notable recoveries above 1,000 carats include the 1,109-carat Lesedi La Rona, the 1,094-carat Seriti, and the 1,080-carat Eva Star.
Lucara’s second-quarter revenue declined by 6 per cent on a year-on-year comparison.
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