Lucara Diamond Corp. has given names to the 2,488- and 1,094-carat rough stones it found recently following a contest in which more than 39,000 Botswana citizens weighed in on the moniker.
The miner has named the larger diamond, which it retrieved from its Karowe mine in Botswana in August, Motswedi, which means a water spring, or the flow of underground water that emerges to the surface offering life and vitality, in the local language, Setswana. The second stone, found in September, is called Seriti, which translates to aura or presence in Setswana and has deep cultural significance related to identity and legacy, Lucara said Wednesday.
The naming came following a contest the company opened to all citizens and residents of Botswana on November 22. During a two-week period, it received more than 39,000 entries, which were judged on creativity, originality, Botswana cultural significance, and relevance to the diamonds themselves.
Lucara will award BWP 100,000 ($7,324) to the winner who chose the name Motswedi, and BWP 50,000 ($3,662) to the one who picked Seriti. Both winners will also receive a tour of Karowe, Lucara noted.
The company is still considering sale options for both diamonds.
“These diamonds are not just geological phenomena; they are a testament to the incredible potential of the Karowe mine,” said Lucara CEO William Lamb. “Each stone tells a story millions of years in the making, and we are humbled to be the custodians of these remarkable gems as they prepare to enter the global market. We look forward to the next stages of their journey, confident that the Motswedi and Seriti will continue to inspire wonder and admiration around the world.”
Image: The 2,488-carat rough (left) and the 1,094-carat diamond (right). (Lucara Diamond Corp.)
