Jagersfontein mine

Description

Jagersfontein is an abandoned open-pit mine close to the town of Jagersfontein, Free State. This open mine shaft is the biggest in the country

Since it was first established in 1888, 2/10 biggest diamonds ever found, known as the Excelsior and the Reitz (now called the Jubilee), were mined here.

The term "Jagers" has since been used to describe the distinctive bluish tint of the gems from this mine. Approximately 9.6 million carats (1,900 kg) of jewel-quality diamonds were extracted during the century the mine operated for, interrupted only by the two World Wars and the Great Depression. Since, an Open Mine Museum and the Jagers Mining Village have opened as tourist attractions at the site.