Exploring the Remaining Diamond Mines and Deposits
Despite the vast exploration and mining efforts from the past decades, there are still untapped diamond mines and undiscovered deposits that continue to intrigue the diamond industry. This article delves into the remaining diamond mines, ongoing discoveries, and the future of diamond production.
Top Ten Diamond Mines in 2016
In 2016, the diamond mining industry was quite active with several significant producers contributing to the global diamond market. According to the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO), here are the top ten diamond producers:
African Diamond Deposits (Anglogold Ashanti) BHP Billiton De Beers Alrosa Rawafid Diamond Mining Botswana Diamonds Endeavour Mining Corporation South32 Balaka Diamond Mining Eurogold ResourcesThese companies operate in various regions, including Africa and Russia, and are responsible for a significant portion of the world's diamond production.
Most Valuable Diamond Mines by Reserves
When it comes to the most valuable diamond mines by reserves, the Argyle mine in Australia stands out as the jewel in the crown. This remote mine in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia has produced over 800 million carats of rough pink diamonds, making it a prized location in the diamond industry.
The Valuable Argyle Mine
The Argyle mine, operated by Rio Tinto, is one of the most famous diamond mines in the world. The mine is renowned for producing some of the most exquisite pink diamonds, leading to its nickname as the “House of Pink.”
While the mine is expected to close by 2020, the legacy of the Argyle mine continues through its impact on the diamond market. GIA-certified pink diamonds from Lady Lux Diamonds are highly sought after and represent a unique and precious investment.
Discovering New Deposits
Even though the top diamond mines are well-known, there is still potential for new discoveries. Geologists and mining companies continue to explore remote regions in search of new deposits. Although not all these discoveries have been developed into mines, there is a high likelihood of uncovering additional diamond resources.
The pressure surrounding diamond exploration is immense, with the global demand for diamonds showing no signs of slowing down. The extraction of diamonds through traditional and advanced methods remains a critical aspect of the mining industry.
Unexplored Diamond Mines and Future Prospects
Questions linger about the existence of diamond deposits that have been found but not yet developed. Some known reserves are still waiting to be exploited, and there is speculation about new discoveries. Geologists and mining companies are keeping a close watch on promising regions where new deposits might be present.
The future of diamond mining looks promising with ongoing research and exploration efforts. Whether it’s small-scale or large-scale operations, the search for new diamond sources continues. Companies are investing heavily in technology to improve efficiency and sustainability in diamond mining.
As the diamond industry evolves, the focus remains on responsible mining practices and sustainable development. With continued exploration and development, the future of diamond production is secured, ensuring that the world can continue to appreciate the beauty and value of diamonds.