Rio Tinto Ends Production at Diavik Diamond Mine in Canada After Producing 150 Million Carats
Rio Tinto has officially marked the end of production at its Diavik diamond mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories, concluding more than two decades of operations that yielded over 150 million carats of rough diamonds.
Located approximately 220 km south of the Arctic Circle beneath Lac de Gras, Diavik was discovered in 1991 and began production in 2003.
The operation, comprising four kimberlite pipes, employed both open-pit and underground mining methods and produced predominantly white gem-quality diamonds, alongside a smaller proportion of rare yellow stones.
Sophie Bergeron, Managing Director of Rio Tinto Iron and Titanium and Diamonds, highlighted the decades of innovation and perseverance demonstrated at Diavik.
“Forty years ago, very few people believed there were diamonds in Canada even fewer could have foreseen how the Diavik story would unfold.
Reaching this milestone required vision, courage, and determination to overcome significant challenges to mine diamonds beneath a frozen lake in one of the world’s most remote and pristine ecosystems,” Bergeron said.
Diavik Chief Operating Officer Matthew Breen described the closure as a significant moment for the region.
“This is a historic day for Diavik and the Northwest Territories, and a source of pride for this unique Canadian success story. Diavik has been an inspired collaboration between a modern mining company and Indigenous partners, leaving an enduring legacy of socioeconomic benefits for the North,” Breen said.
The end of production was marked by a ceremony attended by Indigenous government organizations, government representatives, and other stakeholders.
Rio Tinto stated that closure planning had been in place since before production began, with rehabilitation activities scheduled to continue until 2029, followed by a period of post-closure monitoring.
The company added that final production from Diavik will continue to be processed, polished, and sold through 2026 and beyond via its global customer network.
