A small-scale miner in the African nation of Tanzania has become an overnight millionaire after digging up two massive chunks of one of the world's rarest gemstones.
Saniniu Laizer earned 7.7 billion Tanzanian shillings (A$4.35 million) by selling the two Tanzanite stones, which weighed 9.2kg and 5.8kg.
Until Mr Laizer found these stones, the largest Tanzanite gem ever found was 3.3kg.
"Focus, determination, hard working and consistency is my big secret, I thank everyone," he tweeted earlier today.
The 52-year-old husband to four wives, and father to more than 30 children, said he would slaughter one of his cows to celebrate.
He plans on using his newfound wealth to build a school and a shopping mall.
Tanzanite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, and is only found in a 14 square kilometre strip of land in Tanzania.
It is known for its striking colouring, typically blue, violet and burgundy depending on how it is viewed.
Tanzania is in East Africa, bordering Kenya and Mozambique, among others.
The average Tanzanian earns $1172 a year, making the country one of the world's poorest.
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