Rio Tinto reported a significant 27% year-on-year increase in diamond production for Q1 2025, reaching 942,000 carats compared to 740,000 carats in Q1 2024. This growth was primarily driven by operational improvements at the Diavik diamond mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories, Rio Tinto’s sole operating diamond asset. The strong quarterly performance marks a robust recovery after a volatile 2024, positioning the diamond division for a stronger 2025.

The Diavik mine processed 394,000 tonnes of ore in Q1 2025, up from both Q1 and Q4 2024, reflecting enhanced operational efficiency and throughput. The Q1 2025 output is a marked rebound from the 542,000 carats produced in Q3 2024, when production was hampered by temporary mine closures due to safety concerns.

The Diavik mine is currently Rio Tinto’s only diamond-producing asset, following the closure of the Argyle mine in Australia in 2020.

The surge in output is attributed to: Successful ramp-up of underground mining at the A21 pipe, following the completion of the first phase of development. Increased ore processing volumes and improved operational efficiency. Recovery from previous disruptions, including a temporary shutdown in Q3 2024 due to ground instability in the A154 underground region.

The extension of Diavik’s mine life signals confidence in the long-term fundamentals of the diamond industry, even as global supply and demand dynamics remain volatile.