Alrosa to acquire one of the world’s largest diamond polishing firms

"We are delighted with the results for the 2013 tender collection which are a reflection of their rarity, provenance and global reach."

Since Gem Diamonds took control of the Letseng mine in 2006 the mine, it has produced four of the top 20 largest white gem quality rocks on record.

The 14.82-carat gem goes under the hammer 24 hours before rival Sotheby's auctions its $60 million pink diamond.

The finding is the first definitive proof of a comet exploding in the Earth's atmosphere.

The previous record for a perfect white diamond was set by Christie’s 101.73-carat gem, sold for almost $27 million in May.

The ex-defence official is accused of 12 counts of corruption.

Focuses on ramping up producing in Lesotho, with goal of over one million carats per year.

Measured and indicated pit constrained mineral resources now stand at 5.1 million ounces of gold, up almost 10% from a previous estimate.

Acquisition comes a day after Linc said it wants to get de-listed from the Australian market to re-list it in Singapore, in hopes of luring Asian investors.