Rio Tinto has discovered one of the largest gem-quality yellow diamonds ever in Canada from its Diavik mine in the remote Northwest Territories of Canada.
The 158.20 carat rough diamond is one of only five yellow diamonds weighing more than 100 carats ever unearthed at Diavik. The mine’s production primarily consists of white gem quality diamonds, with less than 1% of its production yielding rare yellow diamonds.
“This two billion year old, natural Canadian diamond, is a miracle of nature and testament to the skill and fortitude of all the men and women who work in Diavik’s challenging sub-Arctic environment,” said Diavik Diamond Mines Chief Operating Officer Matt Breen.
Operating since 2003, Diavik comprises four diamond-bearing pipes that Rio Tinto mines using a combination of open pit and underground mining.
Source: Rio Tinto