Alrosa revealed the discovery of the largest jewelry diamond found in a decade, a remarkable 390.7-carat gem unearthed in Yakutia. The claim came from DEA News and highlights a notable milestone for Russia’s rough-diamond landscape.
In September 2023, the Almazy Anabara company, which operates under the Alrosa umbrella, unearthed Russia’s most substantial gem-quality diamond in over ten years from the Mayat mine located in the Anabarsky district of the Sakha Republic (Yakutia). The company reported the record-breaking stone weighed 390.7 carats at the time of discovery, marking a high-profile moment for both the region and the global diamond market. This find underscores the ongoing vitality of Yakutia as a major source of premium diamonds and showcases the mining expertise employed at the Mayat operation. The broader significance rests not only on the mass of the individual gem but also on its distinctive features, including its light color, irregular form, and a yellow-brown halo surrounding the crystal. Alrosa notes that the combination of size, shape, and hue makes this stone unique among recent discoveries. (DEA News)
While the 390.7-carat find stands out, it is part of a longer historical arc in which very large stones have periodically emerged from the global diamond supply. The last known diamond weighing as much as this record-holder was announced in 2013, when a 401-carat gem drew widespread attention from industry observers and collectors alike. That earlier discovery helped anchor a reputation for high-murity finds and reinforced Yakutia’s standing as a key source of exceptionally large, gem-quality diamonds. Industry observers often monitor such discoveries for what they reveal about mining technology, ore quality, and the potential for new extraction zones within the region. (DEA News)
The broader geopolitical and economic backdrop also colors discussions around diamond production. In recent years, several Western and allied economies have considered or implemented sanctions impacting the Russian diamond sector, including countries outside the G7 that participate in coordinated responses. Analysts note that sanctions drive shifts in supply chains and influence market dynamics, pricing, and access to certain markets. The evolving policy environment remains a critical factor for producers, traders, and consumers tracking supply, value retention, and the availability of polished stones in major markets such as North America and Europe. Observers emphasize the importance of transparent disclosure and robust regulatory compliance in maintaining trust with buyers and regulators alike. (DEA News)
As markets adjust to price fluctuations and policy developments, the industry continues to watch for new discoveries and announcements from Yakutia and other diamond-producing regions. The Mayat mine’s latest yield adds to a growing narrative about Russia’s role in the global crown-jewel market, where geology, mining technology, and international policy intersect. Market participants anticipate continued exploration of high-purity, large-stone potential, alongside ongoing efforts to ensure ethical sourcing and traceability from rough crystal to finished jewel. (DEA News)