98.8 carats mined at Zapolyarnaya

Alrosa’s Verkhne-Munskoye deposit

gives new large gem-quality diamond

On February 17, 2019, a unique gem-quality rough diamond weighing 98.8 carats was mined at Zapolyarnaya kimberlite pipe, which is the part of the Verkhne-Munskoye diamond deposit. The gem has an octahedral shape. There are inclusions in the peripheral and intermediate zones. Rough diamond is transparent with a visible yellow shade, gem-quality.

"This is the second major find since the launch of the deposit last October. It allows us to speak about the great potential of the Verkhne-Munskoye deposit. Not every kimberlite pipe regularly brings large diamonds over 50 carats, especially when it comes to such a large crystal, like this one - weighing almost 100 carats.

Despite some inclusions, it is clear that this is a high quality stone. After a detailed study and evaluation, I believe it will be transferred to Diamonds Alrosa cutting and polishing division," Evgeny Agureev, Member of the Management Board, Director of the United Selling Organization at Alrosa, said.

The first large gem-quality diamond was mined here in the late fall, shortly after the official launch of the deposit on October 31, 2018. The weight of the crystal was 51.49 carats.