PERTH, April 29, 2009 –Rio Tinto’s recent tender of rare blue diamonds from the Argyle Diamond Mine in Western Australia has set record prices and in doing so, far exceeded the company’s expectations.
Known as the ‘Once in a Blue Moon "collection, this first ever collection comprised a range of precious blue and violet diamonds, 16 lots weighing in total 287 carats. The collection was showcased in Tokyo, Hong King and Perth with bids closing on April 8.
Josephine Archer, Sales and Marketing Manager for Argyle Pink Diamonds, comments on the results, "We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm from new and existing coloured diamond collectors around the globe, especially in such a challenging economic environment. With only ten year’s production left at the Argyle mine there is clearly a growing awareness that the opportunities to purchase these collections are rapidly diminishing."
The Once in A Blue Moon tender was sourced from several years of production at the Argyle mine and according to Jean-Marc Lieberherr, General Manager for the sales and marketing of all diamonds from Rio Tinto’s mines, "it was a bold move, with numerous lots selling in excess of the reserve prices, which is a great sign in the lead up to our annual Pink Diamond Tender."
ENDS
For furthe
r information please contact:Robyn Ellison
Communications Manager
Rio Tinto Diamonds
T +61 417 968 359
Email: robyn.ellison@riotinto.com
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