Fifty years have elapsed since the recovery of the world’s largest octahedral diamond, a remarkable 616-carat Type 1 yellow diamond. Originating from the Dutoitspan Mine in Kimberley, South Africa, the diamond remains untouched, unpolished, and unsold, preserving its legacy spanning generations.
Discovered on April 17, 1974, by De Beers employee Abel Maretela, the diamond’s find led to significant rewards for Maretela, including a substantial bonus and a house. Al Cook, CEO of the De Beers Group, had the privilege of viewing the diamond during a visit to Johannesburg, hosted by Moses Madondo, CEO of De Beers Group managed operations. Cook expressed his fascination with diamond history, highlighting the Type 1 classification of the diamond, indicating its formation deep within the Earth’s mantle over a billion years ago.
The diamond’s striking yellow hue, attributed to trapped nitrogen atoms, further adds to its allure, offering a glimpse into Earth’s geological history.
Photo credits: De Beers
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