The Argyle Diamond Mine of Australia: A Jewel of the Outback

The Argyle Diamond Mine, located in the remote East Kimberley region of Western Australia, was one of the world’s most significant sources of diamonds. Operated by Rio Tinto, the mine opened in 1983 and remained active until its closure in 2020. What set Argyle apart was not just the volume of diamonds it produced—over 865 million carats—but the rarity and beauty of its colored stones, particularly pink diamonds.

Argyle was the world’s largest producer of natural pink diamonds, supplying over 90% of the global market. These stones are among the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world, prized for their vivid color and scarcity.

Unlike most diamond mines, which primarily yield gem-quality stones, Argyle produced a large quantity of industrial-grade diamonds as well. Mining was initially done through open-pit operations and later transitioned to underground mining in 2013.

Though the mine has ceased operations, its legacy endures through the highly sought-after Argyle pink diamonds, which have become collector's items and investment-grade assets. The Argyle Mine remains a symbol of Australia’s contribution to the global gemstone industry and a marvel of remote resource extraction.