Rio Tinto’s Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender 2012, which showcases 56 single pink diamonds (including two reds) and 19 lots of blue diamonds, is currently attracting the attention of connoisseurs, collectors and investors from around the world.
Argyle pink diamonds manager Josephine Johnson said the collection is a “highly sought-after collection” destined for “investment portfolios or heirloom pieces of jewellery”.
The Argyle Diamond Mine produces virtually all of the world’s supply of rare pink diamonds, as well as sporadic blue diamonds.
This year’s ‘hero’ stones include Argyle Siren, a 1.32 carat square radiant cut Fancy Vivid Purplish Pink diamond, and Argyle Satine, a 1.02 carat cushion cut Fancy Intense Purplish Pink diamond.
The collection of smaller blue diamonds showcases Argyle Allure, a 0.33 carat heart-shaped diamond, and the similar-sized oval and pear-shaped blue and violet diamonds, Argyle Elektra and Argyle Heloise.
Rio Tinto Diamonds chief commercial officer Jean-Marc Lieberherr said excitement around this year’s Tender collection was understandable as Argyle pink diamonds are a “diminishing natural treasure distinguished by their uniqueness, their limited availability, their exceptional craftsmanship, their rich provenance and their natural beauty”.
Tender viewings are being held in Perth, Hong Kong and London with bids closing on October 15.