Argyle diamonds hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and investors, not only for their increasing value but also their inherent beauty and fascinating origin story. Being able to prove a diamond was unearthed at the Argyle mine can also add a significant premium to the value of the stone. But how can we determine if a diamond is from Argyle?
Pink Diamonds
Among the spectrum of Argyle diamonds, pink diamonds are the most known and collected. Scientifically speaking, Argyle pink diamonds possess unique physical characteristics that set them apart from their counterparts. Their colour is attributed to an additional element: plastic deformation induced by intense pressure during formation. This alteration of the crystal lattice results in the absorption of green light and the reflection of pink, creating the signature blush of these rare gems.
When it comes to verifying the Argyle origin of pink diamonds, scientific testing plays a crucial role. Diamond reports from reputable laboratories such as DELTA Diamond Laboratory (Perth) and Gem Studies Laboratory (Sydney) can confirm the Argyle origin through rigorous analysis.
Blue Diamonds
Argyle blue diamonds are admired for their extreme rarity and earthy blue colour. Unlike other blue diamonds around the world, which derive their colour from minute traces of boron, Argyle blue diamonds boast a distinct composition. These gems contain small traces of hydrogen, resulting in shades of violet, blue-violet, or blue-grey. Similar to pink diamonds, the Argyle origin of blue diamonds can be scientifically confirmed through meticulous testing conducted by gemmological laboratories.
Champagne Diamonds
Once known simply as brown diamonds, Argyle champagne diamonds have undergone a transformation in both identity and perception. Historically comprising a significant proportion of diamonds from the Argyle mine, these gems have been successfully marketed as affordable Argyle collectables. The unique colouration of champagne diamonds is attributed to internal parallel brown grain lines, a result of crystal lattice distortion. Scientific analysis cannot unequivocally confirm their Argyle origin and provenance is only proven through documentation, such as origin certificates from Rio Tinto or other verifiable sources.
White Diamonds
Historically constituting an approximate 27% proportion of diamonds from the Argyle mine, Argyle white diamonds range from near colourless to light yellow. One of the most renowned Argyle white diamonds is The Argyle Octavia, a spectacular 28.84-carat gem celebrated for its size and perfect octahedral crystal. Only documentation from Rio Tinto and other verifiable sources can provide insight into the provenance of Argyle white diamonds as scientific testing cannot determine the Argyle origin.
Yellow Diamonds
Argyle's legacy extends to yellow diamonds, where the presence of nitrogen infuses these gems with radiant splendour. While scientific testing cannot definitively prove the Argyle origin of yellow diamonds, proper documentation can support claims of provenance. An illustrious example of Argyle yellow diamonds is 'The Golden Twins of Argyle,' two magnificent gems renowned for their size, intense hue and exceptional clarity.
(Article Published in Jewellery World Magazine Australia, June 2024)
