South African officials have so far given BHP’s proposal a mixed reception.

CEO Duncan Wanblad is meeting minister Gwede Mantashe for the first time since rejecting BHP's $39bn takeover bid last week.

The proposed $39 billion combination has more than enough components to trigger intense oversight by regulators concerned about implications for market concentration and access to key minerals.

The Russian finance ministry said last month that Russia will regularly buy diamonds from the sanctions-hit producer through a state fund.

The 118.74 carats diamond is the fifth greater than 100-carat precious stone recovered this year at Letšeng mine.

BHP's $39 billion bid will be the elephant in the room at Anglo American's Tuesday annual general meeting.

BHP Group is considering making an improved offer for Anglo American after its $39 billion initial proposal was rejected.

The company’s reputation is in tatters after a series of missteps sent its value plunging by half. And now industry heavyweight BHP is moving in.