Africa, nicknamed “the cradle of humanity”, is full of natural riches which have shaped the history and economy of the continent. Among these treasures are diamonds, precious stones sought throughout the world for their beauty and value.
Africa holds about 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, including gold, copper, platinum, cobalt, uranium, lithium, and many more, minerals essential to diverse industries, ranging from electronics to infrastructure to energy production.
What is fascinating is that these mineral riches are not concentrated in just one specific region but are distributed across the continent, contributing significantly to the economic growth of many African countries.
Among this abundance of resources, diamonds stand out as one of the most coveted treasures. The continent is home to several of the world’s most prolific diamond-producing countries, each with its unique history within the global diamond industry.
Recent diamond production statistics from the Kimberley Process, a joint initiative of governments, industries and civil society regulating diamond trade and production, have revealed the leading role of African nations in the global diamond industry .
Globally, the production of rough diamonds, also called uncut, raw or natural diamonds, is carried out by only 22 countries extracting them from deposits located within their territory.
Remarkably, eight African countries have consolidated their prestigious position among the top ten diamond producing countries in the world.
A closer look at the major African diamond producing countries reveals that each contributes significantly to the global supply of rough diamonds, thereby actively participating in the global economy and jewelry industry.
African diamonds continue to capture the imagination and pique the interest of gem enthusiasts across the world, testifying to the inestimable value and timeless beauty of these gems from the depths of the African earth.