Rio Tinto has unveiled its first significant Argyle pink diamond jewellery piece since the closure of the iconic Argyle mine in Western Australia: the A$6 million Argyle Romantica ring, handcrafted with 3.42 carats of rare pink, red and blue diamonds from the mine.
The Argyle Romantica is the first piece produced under the Argyle Pink Diamonds Icon Partner program, which is part of a strategy to protect the provenance of Argyle pink diamonds.
The significance of Argyle Romantica lies in the union of five exceptional Argyle pink diamonds, totalling 2.31 carats in weight, including a 0.75 carat Fancy Red diamond, two Fancy Vivid Purplish-Pink diamonds and two Fancy Deep Pink diamonds.
The five hero red and pink diamonds are showcased in an intricate setting that includes 1.11 carats of smaller blue and pink Argyle diamonds.
Created by Singapore-based rare gem specialist John Glajz, the Argyle Romantica pays tribute to the full range of romantic hues of Argyle gems.
“Encapsulating a rich history and extraordinary provenance, the Argyle Romantica is a piece of art and an heirloom for tomorrow,” said John Glajz.
John is one of two Argyle Pink Diamonds Icon Partners appointed by Rio Tinto in June 2022, following its decision to retain and support the Argyle Pink Diamonds brand beyond the November 2020 closure of the Argyle mine. Rio Tinto is collaborating with each Icon Partner to feature its final supply of polished Argyle
Pink diamonds in one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces, as well as limited edition collections, that are in keeping with the rarity, beauty and collectability of the jewels.
The secondary market for Argyle pink diamonds comprises jewels from almost four decades of production and requires careful management to preserve the provenance of the diamonds and to continue the legacy of careful custody that underscores the jewels’ rarity and value appreciation.
In support of this work, Rio Tinto is introducing a broadened recertification service, a concierge trading platform for certified diamonds and a new Beyond Rare Tender platform for special sales events, in addition to the Argyle Pink Diamonds Icon Partner program.
The Argyle Romantica will be showcased in Sydney and offered for sale through trusted Argyle Pink Diamonds Select Atelier, J. Farren Price as part of their 80th anniversary celebrations.
Read below for related stories: