In a significant discovery for Sierra Leone’s diamond industry, a 391-carat diamond was unearthed on August 20, 2024, by Meya Mining Company at its Meya River underground mine in the Tankoro Chiefdom, Kono District.
The diamond, recovered using the Tomra Coarse XRT sorter, was followed by the recovery of two additional pieces—one weighing 105 carats and the other 18 carats—the next day, indicating that the original stone likely exceeded 500 carats.
The find is reminiscent of the 476-carat “Meya Prosperity” diamond, also discovered by Meya Mining in November 2017, just 100 meters from the current site.
That diamond, a type IIa, D color gem, was sold to GRAFF for $16.5 million, underscoring the potential value of the recent find. However, the new 391-carat diamond differs significantly from its predecessor in terms of quality and characteristics, being classified as a near-gem piece.
Sierra Leone’s diamond mining industry has a long and complex history, deeply intertwined with the country’s economic development and past conflicts. The Kono District, in particular, is renowned for producing some of the world’s most valuable diamonds.
These recent discoveries by Meya Mining highlight the continuing potential of the region’s underground deposits, contributing to both local and national economies.
The Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources was present to showcase the remarkable find, signaling the ongoing importance of the diamond industry in Sierra Leone’s future.
