The Diavik Diamond Mine in Canada recently discovered a stunning 158.20-carat yellow diamond, marking the conclusion of the mine’s 20-year history and the creation of one of the five diamonds of this size. This unique discovery took place in April 2026, shortly after the mine concluded its operational life. As noted in the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), located approximately 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle in the Northwest Territories (NT), the mine has played a major role in Northern Canada’s industrial economy, producing more than 150 million carats of diamonds since its first production in 2003.
This beautiful yellow diamond is a symbol of success for the operation, representing both the innovations of modern Arctic scientific design and modern-day partnerships in natural resource management, and celebrating a transformative period for the world diamond industry. Such a rare find encapsulates a legacy of resilience, illuminating the mine’s final chapter while securing its place in gemstone history.
A remarkable 158-carat yellow diamond discovery in Canada
According to the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), this 158.20-carat yellow gem is an exceptional find for the Diavik site, which primarily produced high-quality white diamonds. Yellow diamonds account for less than 1 per cent of the mine's total historical output. This recovery is the fifth time a yellow stone exceeding 100 carats has been unearthed at the facility, highlighting the rare geological conditions of the kimberlite pipes beneath Lac de Gras.
Diavik’s two decades of arctic mining
According to the Government of the Northwest Territories, since commercial production began in 2003, Diavik operated as a joint venture, becoming one of North America's most productive mining operations. By the time it ceased production in April 2026, the mine had successfully extracted over 150 million carats of diamonds. The operation is noted for its engineering resilience in the sub-Arctic, utilising complex water-management dikes and integrated wind-diesel power systems.
Indigenous partnerships in site restoration
Following the end of extraction, the site is now in a formal closure and reclamation phase, which is expected to continue until at least 2029. This process is governed by a closure plan developed in consultation with local Indigenous stakeholders and regulatory bodies to ensure the land is returned to a self-sustaining ecosystem.
