Argyle Diamonds
Where they're mined
Argyle diamonds are mined exclusively in the Argyle Diamond Mine in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia. The mine sits on the traditional country of the Miriuwung, Gidja, Malgnin and Wularr people. The mine was opened in 1983 and at its peak year of production mined 40% of the world's diamonds. In 2020 it closed permanently, and given only a small percentage of its yield were deemed gem quality, Argyle diamonds are extremely rare and valuable.
Grading System
These diamonds are graded in line with normal white and coloured diamond guidelines respectively, there is no unique grading system for Argyle diamonds.
Colours
Argyle diamonds are available in a range of naturally occurring colours, including white, champagne, cognac, blue, violet and the rare and the highly-coveted Argyle pink and red diamonds. Fluorescence is a defining character of most white Argyle diamonds.
Certification
A branded Argyle certificate of authenticity is always supplied with each Argyle diamond, and some can also be accompanied by an additional GIA certificate, however this is on a case by case basis as not all stones have gone through this extra certification process.
Value
Due to their scarcity and rare colours, gem quality Argyle diamonds are generally more valuable than diamonds of comparable size and quality from other mines. Due to the closure of the Argyle diamond mine there may be a rise in value in the future for both their loose stones and stones set in existing jewellery.
