Rio Tinto Says Large Stones Tender Secures Strong Results

Rio Tinto's recently held tender of “special”, or large rough diamonds, from its three diamond mines secured strong results, with strong representation from Israeli firms.

The tender included diamonds heavier than 10.8 carats from Rio Tinto’s mines in Australia, Canada and Zimbabwe.

The rough stones were displayed in Antwerp and Israel during October, and included 104 parcels of diamonds featuring many fancy cognac diamonds from the Argyle mine in Western Australia.

Meanwhile, the most valuable diamond in the tender was a 74-carat diamond from the Murowa mine in Zimbabwe.

More than 100 diamond firms from around the world submitted bids via Rio Tinto Diamonds' online bidding platform, with 34 companies being successful.

Patrick Coppens, General Manager of Sales for Rio Tinto Diamonds said, “This Specials Tender showcases the unique portfolio of Rio Tinto’s diamonds mines and the results reflect the strong demand and resilience for diamonds at this end of the market.”