Editor’s Note
Panna, Madhya Pradesh’s diamond hub, shines anew with the recovery of a rare 13.16-carat gem-quality diamond from the NMDC project, valued at around ₹80 lakh—the largest such find since mining resumed in March 2024.
Panna, the renowned diamond city of Madhya Pradesh, has once again captured national and international attention with its brilliance. A highly rare and superior quality natural gem-quality diamond weighing 13.16 carats has been recovered from the NMDC Diamond Mining Project in Panna. The estimated value of this precious diamond is reported to be around 80 lakh rupees. Since the mine resumed operations in March 2024, this is considered the largest gem-quality diamond found to date.
Following this historic discovery, Panna’s identity as a major diamond-producing region in the world has been reinforced. According to experts, finding a natural diamond of such large size and high quality is an extremely rare occurrence. This is why the discovery is being hailed as a significant achievement in Panna’s diamond mining history.
According to NMDC officials, the diamond was found during the processing of kimberlite ore in the regular mining process. Employees identified this precious gem during ongoing operations at the mine, after which its quality and weight were examined. The examination revealed it to be a 13.16-carat gem-quality diamond.
Previously, a 10.04-carat diamond was considered the largest in this category from the NMDC project. However, the new 13.16-carat diamond has now surpassed that record. This achievement not only demonstrates NMDC’s mining capabilities but also highlights the potential of natural treasures hidden in Panna’s soil.
Panna has long been known as India’s diamond city. The quality of natural diamonds found here is renowned across the country. Such rare diamonds have periodically emerged from Panna’s mines, astonishing people. The diamonds found here are sold through an auction process, and the proceeds contribute to government revenue.
NMDC’s Diamond Mining Project plays a crucial role in Madhya Pradesh’s mineral sector. Mining activities also increase local employment opportunities and accelerate the region’s economic development. The new diamond discovery has created an atmosphere of excitement among project employees and local residents.
Experts say that the larger the size of a natural gem-quality diamond, the greater its rarity and value. This 13.16-carat diamond holds special significance due to its quality, size, and brilliance.
This new achievement from Panna once again proves that the land of Madhya Pradesh is extremely rich in mineral wealth. While this NMDC discovery has brought Panna back into the spotlight, it has also raised expectations for the discovery of even larger diamonds here in the future.