The diamond giant Alrosa PJSC has announced the retrieval of a 390.7-carat diamond of exquisite jewelry quality. This extraordinary find, the largest in Russia in the past decade, was made at the Mayat mine in Yakutia. The diamond possesses a unique, non-standard shape and is surrounded by a captivating yellow-brown halo, as stated by the company. Notably, it’s the largest gem-quality diamond to be mined in Russia since 2013.

Alrosa, a state-controlled entity that rivals industry leader De Beers in gem production, has recently been focused on cutting and showcasing its most exceptional gems at international auction houses such as Christie’s. However, potential sales of this newly discovered stone may face obstacles due to sanctions imposed by countries like the US and UK, which restrict the import of Russian gem-quality diamonds. Despite resistance from importer nations like Belgium, there’s growing speculation that G-7 nations, including the EU, may announce further restrictions on such trade later this month.