The 1,100+ carat gem quality Type IIa stone found in Botswana in November has been given the SeTswana name “Lesedi la Rona”, meaning Our Light.
Lesedi la Rona is the largest diamond to be recovered in more than 100 years and the largest ever to be recovered in Botswana.
“This diamond is the pride and heritage of Botswana,” said Lamb, the chief executive of the new diamond producer in Botswana.
A contest to name the diamond was held for the citizens of Botswana and the winning name chosen from over 11,000 entries, was announced on Tuesday.
Botswana citizen Thembani Moitlhobogi emerged as the winner of 25,000 Pula (about R30,000) and will be informed immediately.
At a press conference in Cape Town to announce the winner of the competition, Lamb said the gem stone was as big as a tennis ball in size.
Lamb said the diamond was 1,111 carats when it was discovered, and weighed 1,109 carats after it was polished.
Botswana is the world’s second biggest diamond producer.
