Perth: Rio Tinto’s 2017 Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender collection of 58 rare pink, red and violet diamonds from its Argyle mine has delivered a record result, reflecting strong global demand for these increasingly rare diamonds.
Known as Custodions of Rare Beauty, the 2017 collection of 58 pink, red and blue diamonds was highly sought after with the winners comprising collectors, conoisseurs and luxury jewelers from 11 countries spread across Asia, Europe, Middle East, North America and Oceania.
Overall the Tender collection continued its trajectory of double digit price growth with Lot Number 1, the Argyle Everglow™, becoming the most valuable diamond in the Tender’s 33 year history.
The 2.11 carat Argyle Everglow™, the largest Fancy Red diamond presented at the Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender, was won by Optimum Diamonds LLC, a New York based diamantaire specialising in ultra rare natural fancy colour diamonds. Optimum Diamonds LLC also won Lot Number 5, Argyle Liberte™, an exceptionally rare 0.91 carat violet diamond.
Optimum Diamonds LLC chief executive officer David Shara said “Optimum Diamonds is delighted to have won the Argyle Everglow™. This historic red diamond is one of the diamond world’s rarest treasures and it is a privilege to be able to add it to Optimum’s collection. The Argyle Liberte™ is a mesmerising violet diamond that fits perfectly with Optimum’s quest for the truly exceptional in the world of fancy coloured diamonds.”
The largest pink diamond in the collection, Lot Number 3, the 2.42 carat cushion shaped Argyle Avaline™ was acquired by the international luxury jewellery house Graff, known for creating the world’s most extraordinary pink diamond jewellery.
Graff founder and chairman Laurence Graff said, “We have always been passionate about pink diamonds, acquiring these incredible miracles of nature is a pleasure and an honour. We will take great care to respect the delicate beauty of Argyle Avaline™ as we craft a setting for this exquisite and exceptionally rare diamond.”
Rio Tinto Copper & Diamonds Sales & Marketing vice president Alan Chirgwin said, “We are delighted with the 2017 Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender results. The market fundamentals for pink diamonds – strong demand for a product that is both limited and finite – continue to support their significant value appreciation.”
Rio Tinto’s Argyle diamond mine in the far north of Western Australia produces virtually the world’s entire supply of pink, red and violet diamonds. Less than 0.1 per cent of the Argyle production is pink, red and violet diamonds.
