Argyle pink and Australian diamonds
A finite supply from the Kimberley.
By the CTJ Jewellery team, led by founder Greg Ward · Updated September 2026 · Editorial policy
Key facts
- Mined in the East Kimberley, WA
- Argyle closed in November 2020
- Pinks were a tiny share of Argyle’s output
- Argyle also produced champagne and cognac diamonds
- Verify with documentation and a laser inscription
- Sourced by CTJ on request
Why did the Argyle mine matter?
Argyle began production in the 1980s and became one of the world’s largest diamond mines by volume. Most of its output was brown and champagne diamonds. A very small share was pink, and those pinks became the best known diamonds Australia has produced.
Are there other Australian diamonds?
Yes, in smaller numbers. The Ellendale mine in Western Australia was known for yellow diamonds, and the Merlin mine in the Northern Territory produced white diamonds. Neither is producing at scale today, so most Australian diamonds on the market come from existing stock rather than new mining.
How are pink diamonds graded?
Pink diamonds are graded on hue and intensity rather than the D-to-Z scale. Argyle used its own scale, from purplish pink through pink to pink rosé, with intensity from 1, the most intense, to 9. Smaller pinks suit accent stones beside a white centre diamond.
How do you verify an Argyle pink diamond?
- Ask for the original Argyle documentation
- Check the laser inscription on the girdle matches the paperwork
- Look for an independent report, such as GIA, confirming natural colour
- Buy from a jeweller who can show where the stone came from
More on grading reports.
How does CTJ source Australian diamonds?
Argyle and other Australian stones are no longer held in normal wholesale stock. Tell us the colour, size and budget you have in mind. We search our trade network, then show you what is available, with its paperwork, before you decide. See diamond sourcing.