The Laings Journal
A rare and exquisite sight. Argyle pink diamonds have become an icon of gemstones since their discovery in 1979. With beautifully unique colour, not to be compared to anything else of its kind. These pink diamonds are a gift of nature.
A highly coveted extraordinary gemstone, Argyle pink diamonds are not only significant for their beautiful depth of colour but also their fascinating origins. At Laings, we are mesmerised by the sparkling elegance that these diamonds exude. Join us as we explore the history and cultural notoriety of the famous Argyle pink diamonds.
HISTORICAL ORIGINS
A dazzling reveal, the diamonds were first discovered in 1979. Found in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia, the Rio Tinto Argyle Diamond Mine became a significant gemstone revelation. The diamonds the mine hosts were born more than 1.6 billion years ago, forged under extreme pressure and temperature. Waiting patiently to grace fine luxury jewellery for generations to come. An important geological diamond discovery, similar gemstones were elusive, none of which matched the immense saturation of those found in Western Australia.
In 2012, miners unearthed one of the most substantial pink diamonds ever documented in the region. It was officially given the appellation 'Jubilee' in commemoration of its discovery coinciding with the Diamond Jubilee year of Queen Elizabeth II. The rough diamond weighed an impressive 12.76 carat and has since found a home in Australia’s Melbourne Museum.
ROYAL SIGNIFICANCE
Pink diamonds have been a perennial favourite of the Royal Family. Featured in gifts of celebration as well as impressive jewellery pieces, the diamonds have many links to the family.
In celebration of Her Majesty the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, designer John Calleija crafted an astounding work of art entitled Majestic Light. The piece featured nearly a quarter kilo of solid platinum and presents an astonishing 749 Argyle pink and white diamonds. The artwork is complemented by a wearable Argyle Pink diamond ring inspired by Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation crown.
Rio Tinto showcased a myriad of alluring diamonds in 2012 to honour the Royal Family. Out of The Vault: Pink Diamonds and Royalty was exhibited for one day only in the Orangery at Kensington Palace. Celebrating the relationship between the gems and the historical family. A limited chance for a select few to witness extraordinary natural beauty. The heroes of the collection included the Argyle Siren, a rich rough pink diamond with vibrant deep purple hues, and the Argyle Satine, a 1.02-carat cushion cut fancy intense purple-pink diamond.
Image of Queen Elizabeth II by Andrew Parson
Image of Majestic Light by Calleija
A RARE EMBLEM OF BEAUTY
Over the years, Argyle pink diamonds have remained an alluring gemstone. The Western Australia mine closed in 2020 due to limited resources making the vibrant diamonds even more elusive and desirable. At its height, the mine was able to produce only 50-60 pink diamonds a year. Reminiscent of a sunset’s glow, pink diamonds are a manifestation of nature’s unwavering beauty.
FAQ
With the argyle diamond mine in Australia now closed, there are a limited number of argyle diamonds in circulation. This makes them a coveted resource, which is currently seeing a large demand. Meaning those in circulation are gaining an increase of capital.
During the mines operation from 1979 to 2020, only 50-60 pink diamonds were mined a year. This makes them an extremely rare commodity.
Along with various other coloured diamonds, Laings currently stocks a selection of Argyle pink diamond jewellery.
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Cover and tile image credit of Rio Tinto