A colossal yellow diamond taken from the earth at Diavik Diamond Mine is among those being promoted to gem experts worldwide.
Rio Tinto says the 74.48-carat Diavik Helios fancy yellow diamond represents Lot number 1 in the “specials” tender, which deals with stones no smaller than 10 carats.
Fancy yellow diamonds are rare finds from the Diavik diamond mine, according to the company.
“Since the Diavik mine began production in 2003 it has produced on average only five large yellow diamonds each year, in effect less than 0.001 per cent of Diavik’s annual production,” Patrick Coppens, the general manager of sales and marketing for Rio Tinto’s diamond business, said in the release. “The Diavik Helios is an exceptional diamond in terms of its colour saturation and clarity and will be in strong demand from coloured diamond specialists around the world.”
The tender will be physically showcased in both Antwerp and Tel Aviv, together with virtual and online viewings to cater for Covid-19 restrictions. Bids close on Nov. 9.