GABORONE, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Botswana's mineral resources minister on Thursday said the diamond-rich southern African nation will use the rare 20-carat blue diamond in promoting Botswana as a leading producer of natural diamonds.
Eric Molale, Minister of Mineral Resources, Green Technology and Energy Security, told Xinhua in a telephone interview that the unique diamond will not be put up for sale just yet.
"The iconic blue diamond will be showcased over the coming months to promote Botswana, as a leading global producer of natural ethical diamonds. It is anticipated that the diamond will be put up for sale towards the end of the year (2019)," said Molale.
The exceptional stone was discovered at Botswana's Orapa, Letlhakane and Damtshaa Mines (OLDM), situated some 402km northwest of Botswana's capital city, Gaborone, as a 41.11 carat rough gemstone.
According to available information, the gemstone's unusual and vibrant blue color is created by the molecular inclusion of the rare mineral boron, which between one and three billion years ago was present in the rocks of ancient oceans during violent and diamond-forming volcanic activity.
The polished stone is named 'The Okavango Blue' in recognition of Botswana's own environmental natural treasure and World Heritage site -- the Okavango Delta in the northwestern part of Botswana.
The Okavango Delta is further a symbol of Okavango Diamond Company (ODC), the diamond sales and marketing arm of the Botswana government.
"Only a handful of similar blue stones have come to market during the last decade of which the Okavango Blue rightfully takes its place as one of the most significant," said Molale.
Blue diamonds are so rare and they comprise only about 0.02 percent of mined diamonds but their beauty and value is such that they include some of the world's most famous jewels, according to available information.
Marcus ter Haar, Managing Director of Okavango Diamond Company, said it was clear they had something very special from the first moment the diamond was discovered.
"Everyone who has viewed the 20-carat polished diamond has marveled at its unique coloration, which many see as unlike any blue stone they have seen before," said Marcus during the diamond's unveiling ceremony on Wednesday in Gaborone.
Diamonds are a key natural resource for Botswana and account for approximately half of the government revenue.
