Japan Sees 1st Argyle Pink, Red Diamonds in 5 Years

For the first time in half a decade, Japanese diamond traders will be able to get a gander at the precious pink crop from Western Australia's Argyle diamond mine, Diamond World reports. Between now and October 2, when bids for the stones close, Japan will play host to the Argyle polished diamonds on offer, already cut by Rio Tinto.

Of the 64 Argyle diamonds, 58 of the precious gems are pink, three are blue and three are red, which are exceedingly rare. Some of the top diamonds for sale include the 1.56 carat round Argyle Phoenix, the 0.71 carat blue heart-shaped Argyle Celestial and the 3.02 carat radiant fancy intense orangey pink Argyle Imperial.

For the last two decades, Japan has consistently shown a strong demand for Argyle pinks, and today it is the largest market for the stones, especially the lighter shades of pink, according to Diamond World.

http://www.israelidiamond.co.il/english/News.aspx?boneID=918&objID=13317