Unveiling the Gigantic Gem: The World's Second Largest Diamond to Be Auctioned
Introducing the Lesedi La Rona, an astonishing diamond weighing an impressive 1109 karats - enough to fill your palm! This colossal gemstone is about the size of a tennis ball and is set to make waves at Sotheby's upcoming auction in London next month.
Discovered in Botswana in November 2015, the Lesedi La Rona's size alone necessitated a lengthy process to estimate its potential value. Traditional methods, such as scanning, are typically employed to assess the worth of diamonds; however, due to its size, the Lesedi La Rona simply didn't fit.
Engaging audiences worldwide, the Lesedi La Rona is poised to set new trends in the diamond market. Businesses worldwide are eagerly observing the auction, hoping to gain valuable insights into the market's current state and future trends.
The Notable Diamonds of Lucara
Lucara Diamonds, the company behind the Lesedi La Rona, has experienced significant growth following this remarkable discovery. The Lesedi La Rona's monumental size and value have greatly contributed to Lucara's financial success, as evidenced by their sale of 145 diamonds valued over $1 million each, resulting in a staggering revenue of over $528 million [1].
While the Lesedi La Rona was not successful at Sotheby's initial auction in June 2023, with the highest bid reaching around $61 million, it eventually found a buyer in 2025 - luxury jeweler Graff Diamonds - who purchased a 373.7-carat fragment of the gemstone for a hefty $17.5 million [1]. Another impressive diamond discovered at Lucara's Karowe mine, the 813-carat "The Constellation," was sold for $63 million in 2024, setting a new record for a rough gem [1].
The Timeless Allure of the Lesedi La Rona
Despite missing its original auction estimate, the Lesedi La Rona's fragments continue to garner substantial sums, reflecting its exceptional value and rarity. Although it failed to claim the title of the world's most expensive diamond, the Lesedi La Rona remains one of the most significant and cherished gems in history.
Revitalizing Botswana's Diamond Industry
This incredible discovery has revitalized Botswana's once thriving diamond industry, which had seen a decline in recent years. The Lesedi La Rona has not only placed Botswana back on the map as a major player in the diamond market but has also generated significant revenue for the country.
Exclusive Auction Viewings
Potential buyers may visit the Lesedi La Rona prior to the auction in New York on May 7th or London from June 18th to June 28th to get a closer look at the prestigious gemstone.
Inspiring Awe and Enchantment
As the Lucara Diamond Corp. prepares to auction the Lesedi La Rona, the world eagerly awaits to witness the unveiling of this extraordinary gemstone and its potential to revolutionize the diamond market.
The following are highlights from the provided enrichment data, integrated into the revised text:
- The Lesedi La Rona, discovered in 2015 at Lucara Diamond Corp.'s Karowe mine in Botswana, is the world's second-largest diamond, weighing an impressive 1,109 carats.
- The Lesedi La Rona was initially expected to sell for at least $70 million at a Sotheby’s auction in June 2023, but the highest bid was around $61 million.
- In 2025, Lucara Diamond Corp. sold a 373.7-carat fragment of the Lesedi La Rona for $17.5 million as part of a $54.8 million tender to luxury jeweler Graff Diamonds.
- The "Constellation," another impressive diamond discovered at Lucara's Karowe mine, was sold for $63 million in 2024, setting a new record for a rough gem.
- Lucara's earnings from the sale of these massive diamonds have significantly contributed to the company's revenue, totaling over $528 million.
Note: The enrichment data will be integrated naturally into the revised text, ensuring a smooth, seamless reading experience.
