Rio Tinto unveiled the largest fancy red diamond in the history of its Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender, during a world exclusive preview in New York.
The 2.11-carat polished radiant-cut diamond, named Argyle Everglow™, is the dazzling centrepiece of the 2017 Argyle Pink Diamond Tender – an annual showcase of the rarest diamonds discovered from Rio Tinto’s Argyle mine, according to the company.
Arnaud Soirat, Rio Tinto copper & diamonds chief executive said: “We are delighted to announce this historic diamond at our tender preview, a testament to the unique Argyle ore-body that continues to produce the world’s rarest gems.”
Argyle Everglow™ has been assessed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) as a notable diamond with a grade of fancy red VS2. In the 33-year history of the Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender there have been less than 20 carats of fancy red certified diamonds sold.
Argyle Pink Diamonds manager Josephine Johnson said: “Argyle Everglow™ represents rarity within rarity and will drive global demand from collectors and connoisseurs in search of the incomparable.”
The 2017 Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender is named ‘Custodians of Rare Beauty’ in honour of its rich provenance and honourable pedigree. The 58 diamonds in the tender weigh a total of 49.39 carats – including four fancy red diamonds, four purplish red diamonds, two violet diamonds, and one blue diamond.
The collection comprises five “hero” diamonds selected for their unique beauty and named to ensure there is a permanent record of their contribution to the history of the world’s most important diamonds. They are Argyle Everglow™, 2.11-carat radiant-shaped fancy red diamond, Argyle Isla™, 1.14-carat radiant-shaped fancy red diamond, Argyle Avaline™, 2.42-carat cushion-shaped fancy purple-pink diamond, Argyle Kalina™, 1.50-carat oval-shaped fancy deep pink diamond, and Argyle Liberté™, 0.91-carat radiant-shaped fancy deep gray-violet diamond.
The 2017 Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender will be showcased in New York, Hong Kong and Perth with bids closing on 11 October 2017. (Photo Courtesy: Rio Tinto)
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