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Diavik

Diavik built three unique water retention structures to access four kimberlite pipes in shallow waters of Lac de Gras. Far left is the A21 dike project prior to dewatering. Photo: Diavik Diamond Mines
  • Diamonds
  • Production start 2003, after exploration started in 1991 with staking by Aber Resources
  • Lac de Gras, Northwest Territories, 300 kilometres northeast of Yellowknife
  • Open-pit and underground (A154 South, A154 North, A418), open pit A21
  • Mine life projection 16-22 years (2003-2025) – currently projecting maximum end of range to 2025
  • Socio-economic northern legacy – 9,245 person years employment, $5.4 billion spend (through 2017)
  • Over $1 billion of wealth generated per square kilometre (12) of footprint
  • Owned by Rio Tinto (60% and operator) and Dominion Diamond (40%)
  • A21 construction complete and first diamonds produced March 2018