PINK DIAMONDS FROM THE ARGYLE DIAMOND MINE

The Argyle diamond mine, operational from 1983 until 2020 and was located in the East Kimberley area of Western Australia. It was one of the world’s largest producers of diamonds and has gained significant recognition for its unique pink diamonds. The mine is owned and operated by Rio Tinto, a leading global mining company.

The Argyle diamond mine was first discovered in 1979 and officially opened in 1983. It is situated in the remote and rugged landscape of the Kimberley, which is known for its rich mineral resources. The mine covers an area of approximately 124 hectares.

The primary focus of the Argyle diamond mine was the production of pink diamonds, which are highly sought after for their rarity and unique beauty. Pink diamonds are formed under intense pressure and heat deep within the Earth’s mantle, making them incredibly rare compared to other coloured diamonds. The Argyle mine has been responsible for supplying over 90% of the world’s pink diamonds, making it the dominant player in the global pink diamond market.

In addition to pink diamonds, the Argyle diamond mine also produces other coloured diamonds such as champagne, cognac, red, blue, and violet diamonds. However, pink diamonds remain the most sought after.

The Argyle diamond mine had a significant impact on the local economy. It created numerous job opportunities for the local community and has contributed to the development of infrastructure in the region. The mine also supported various social and environmental initiatives, including land rehabilitation and conservation efforts. It is important to note that the Argyle diamond mine closed in 2020. This closure marked the end of an era for pink diamond production, making the supply of these rare diamonds even scarcer.