On Desolate 'Roof of Africa,' the World's Priciest Diamonds

The world's highest mines, found in an area known as the Roof of Africa in the tiny nation of Lesotho, hold diamonds that are so prized they go for $2,000 a carat—20 times the world average of $100. 

But the excavation of these extremely precious gems is dangerous and difficult, with high-altitude winds and temperatures that drop to 30 below zero in craggy areas only reachable through steep and narrow mountain passes, reports the Wall Street Journal

What's more, the yield is low compared to other locations, with Bloomberg citing a recent "drought of large stones," for which Lesotho is known. In spite of the many obstacles, places like the Letseng mine, which is owned by UK-based Gem Diamonds, are gaining more attention.

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