Rio Tinto’s Diavik Mine Produces 100 Millionth Carat

(IDEX Online News) – Rio Tinto has announced that its Diavik Diamond Mine in Canada has produced more than 100 million carats since it first started production in 2003.

The mine is located on an island in a remote subarctic lake and is Canada’s largest diamond mine. It produces mainly gem-quality stones, often used in high-end jewelry in major consumer markets around the world.

Rio Tinto emphasized that it has taken its corporate social responsibility considerations seriously, highlighting that not only have local communities been consulted about the operation and impact of the mine, but that more than half of the 1,100 employees live in Canada’s north and approximately one quarter is Aboriginal.

“Strong and respectful partnerships are at the heart of the way we work at Diavik and I would like to thank all of our investors, our community, business and government partners, and our workforce for their support over the past 13 years,” said Diavik Diamond Mine president and chief operating officer, Marc Cameron.

“This production milestone is especially gratifying given our strong safety record, our focus on ethics and the environment, and an unwavering commitment to delivering substantial and lasting benefits to all of our stakeholders.”

In 2014, the development of a fourth pipe, known as A21 was approved. Its development was part of the original plan for the mine, and production from it is expected to commence in 2018.