Aber 2006 Rough Diamond Sales Up 6%

Aber's 2006 net earnings were $104.3 million compared to $81.3 million in 2005. Sales increased 11 percent to $558.8 million up from $505.2 million the prior year.

Aber’s 40 percent share of the Diavik mine production in 2006 was 3.931 million carats, rising from 3.309 million in 2005. Rough diamond sales increased by 6 percent to $332.6 million, the company reported. During the past year, the company has held ten rough diamond sales.

Sales by Aber’s retail arm Harry Winston totaled $226.2 million, compared to $191.2 million the previous year.

“The Diavik mine is developing both an underground mine and a new open pit while our jewelry business continues to open more salons in prime luxury retail locations,” said Aber's chairman and CEO Robert Gannicott.