Rio Tinto ends production at Diavik diamond mine after two decades
Canadian operation closes after producing over 150 million carats, with rehabilitation set to continue until 2029
Rio Tinto has officially ended production at its Diavik diamond mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories, bringing to a close more than 20 years of operations that produced over 150 million carats of rough diamonds.
Located about 220 km south of the Arctic Circle beneath Lac de Gras, the Diavik mine was discovered in 1991 and began production in 2003. The operation included four kimberlite pipes and utilised both open pit and underground mining methods, producing primarily white gem quality diamonds along with a smaller number of rare yellow stones.
A Landmark in Canadian Mining
Sophie Bergeron reflected on the significance of the milestone, highlighting the scale of innovation required to develop the mine.
“Forty years ago there were very few people who believed there were diamonds in Canada – even fewer could have foreseen how the Diavik story would unfold. To arrive at this milestone has 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.”
Diavik COO Matthew Breen described the closure as a defining moment for both the operation and the region.
“This is an historic day for Diavik and the Northwest Territories and a great source of pride for this unique Canadian success story. Diavik has been an inspired collaboration between a modern mining company and Indigenous partners with an enduring legacy of socioeconomic benefits for the North.”
Closure and Rehabilitation
The end of production was marked by a ceremony attended by Indigenous government organisations, government representatives and other stakeholders, underscoring the mine’s long standing partnerships and regional impact.
Rio Tinto confirmed that closure planning had been in place since before production began. Rehabilitation work will continue through to 2029, followed by a period of post closure monitoring to ensure environmental stability.
Although mining has ceased, final production from Diavik will continue to be processed, polished and sold through 2026 and beyond via the company’s global customer network.
The closure of Diavik marks the end of one of Canada’s most significant diamond mining operations, leaving behind a legacy of technical achievement, partnership and economic contribution.
