Argyle: One of the Last Tenders

PERTH, Australia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rio Tinto’s 2019 Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender collection of 64 rare pink and red diamonds from its iconic Argyle mine has delivered strong results reflecting intense global demand for the rare diamonds.

The 2019 collection, the 35^th Tender since the mine began production, saw double digit growth in the number of bids, with successful bidders coming from nine countries.

Whilst bids and total values remain confidential, Lot number 1, Argyle Enigma™, a 1.48 carat heart shaped Fancy Vivid Purplish Pink diamond, the most valuable diamond in the collection, was won by Australian based Argyle Pink Diamonds partner Blue Star & Kiven Diamonds. Blue Star & Kiven Diamonds also won Lot number 4, Argyle Verity™.

Ron Kiven, Director of Blue Star & Kiven Diamonds part of the Aurostar Group said “No other diamonds on earth match the rarity and provenance of Argyle pink diamonds. To have acquired two of the last Argyle pink diamonds to ever be unearthed, and one of the few Fancy Red Argyle diamonds in existence is the ultimate privilege”.

Almost the entire world supply of rare pink, red and violet diamonds come from Rio Tinto’s Argyle diamond mine which will close at the end of 2020.

Over the past 19 years the value of Argyle pink diamonds sold at Tender has appreciated more than 500 per cent, outperforming all major equity markets.

Rio Tinto Copper & Diamonds vice president of sales and marketing, Alan Chirgwin said “The 2019 Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender was highly sought after with a set of results that underscores the ongoing value appreciation of these gems in the history of rare coloured diamonds.”

The 2019 Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender collection was accompanied for the first time by an exclusive selection of smaller Argyle pink and red diamonds.  Read more details in the original article published by Business Wire. 

Source: Business Wire

Credit Image: Rio Tinto