Petra Diamonds finds huge gemstone
LONDON , September 29, 2009 – Miner Petra Diamonds said it had recovered a huge, high quality 507.55 carat white diamond at the Cullinan mine in South Africa.
The diamond is believed to be one of the 20 largest diamonds ever found. Cullinan has been the source of some of the world’s biggest diamond discoveries.
“Initial examinations indicate that it is of exceptional colour and clarity,” Petra Diamonds said, noting that the diamond was found alongside other large white diamonds of 168 carats, 58.50 carats and 53.30 carats.
Petra said the Cullinan mine had again proven to be an exceptional source of magnificent diamonds.
“The Cullinan mine has again given the world a spectacularly beautiful and important diamond,” said Chief Executive Johan Dippenaar.
The Petra business is now geared for further growth, said Chairman Adonis Pouroulis.
He said the company planned to scale down exploration and focus on production.
“As the diamond market continues to show positive signs of recovery, we are well placed to benefit from the economic potential of our quality mining assets,” he said.
