Canadian Diamond Mines Unite for a One-of-a-Kind Auction
Canadian diamond mines create unique pendant for auction; proceeds aid local families. Explore the story of unity and charity.
In a remarkable display of unity, the Canadian Northwest Territories’ three active diamond mines joined forces to create a stunning one-of-a-kind natural diamond pendant. Rio Tinto’s Diavik Diamond Mine, De Beers Group and Mountain Province Diamonds’ Gahcho Kué Diamond Mine, and Burgundy Diamond Mines’ Ekati Diamond Mine collaborated on this extraordinary piece, which became the centerpiece of the 2024 MAX Awards auction. The event, held in Yellowknife as part of the 2024 Yellowknife Geoscience Forum, brought together the mining and exploration community to celebrate innovation, environmental stewardship, and community impact.
This beautiful necklace highlighted the region’s incredible natural diamonds and told a story of culture, collaboration, and care. Designed by Adamas Diamonds and set in 18-karat white gold, the pendant featured three stunning diamonds sourced from each of the NWT’s mines:
- A 0.41-carat round brilliant-cut diamond from Ekati
- A 0.51-carat radiant-cut diamond from Gahcho Kué
- A 0.41-carat round brilliant-cut diamond from Diavik
These gems were set within a custom caribou antler design, a tribute to the Indigenous peoples of the North and their deep connection to the land and its wildlife.
During the MAX Awards, the pendant was successfully auctioned for CAD 17,500, with all proceeds benefiting the Yellowknife Community Fundraising Club’s Adopt-A-Family program. This initiative provides much-needed gifts and groceries to needy families, spreading joy during the holiday season.
The creation of the pendant symbolized much more than a celebration of the NWT’s world-renowned diamond industry. It was a testament to the shared commitment of Rio Tinto, De Beers Group/Mountain Province Diamonds, and Burgundy Diamond Mines to give back to their community and honor the land that yields these extraordinary natural treasures.
Each diamond in the pendant carried its own story. The Ekati diamond, a round brilliant cut, represented Burgundy Diamond Mines’ dedication to upholding the region’s legacy of responsible mining. The radiant-cut diamond from Gahcho Kué highlighted the collaborative spirit of De Beers and Mountain Province Diamonds in creating lasting benefits for local communities. Finally, the Diavik diamond reflected Rio Tinto’s respect for the environment and its ongoing partnership with the Northern people. Together, these gems became a symbol of the North’s strength, resilience, and unity.
The caribou antler motif was particularly poignant. For thousands of years, Caribou have been a source of sustenance and cultural significance for Indigenous communities in the Northwest Territories. By incorporating this design, the pendant paid homage to these traditions while linking them to the future of the NWT’s diamond industry.
The MAX Awards, an annual event celebrating excellence in the NWT’s mining and exploration sector, provided the perfect stage for the pendant. With its proceeds going to the Adopt-A-Family program, the auction is another example of how the diamond industry can support its surrounding communities in meaningful ways. The auction exceeded its appraised value and elevated the impact of the Adopt-A-Family program, ensuring more children and families in Yellowknife have a brighter holiday season.
As the diamond industry in the North continues to shine brightly, events like the MAX Awards remind us that the actual value of these gems lies not just in their sparkle but in their ability to bring people together and create lasting positive change.
