The company reported a first-half net profit of $551 million.

Stockpiling follows new regulations that compel miners to pay half of their royalties using commodities.

The facility will be equipped with bi-facial panels that can also generate energy from the light that reflects off the snow.

The diamond, measuring 82.2 x 42.8 x 34.2 mm, is described as a type IIa top-white gem of high quality.

The miner said the proof of concept currently running at Marsfontein has provided key information for the development of Thorny River.

Debswana sold diamonds worth $2.179 billion in H1, compared to $2.622 billion in the same period last year.

Study could shape the future of the diamond exploration industry, informing where diamonds are most likely to be found.