#diamonds #westernaustralia #pinkdiamonds In this video, we uncover the incredible story of the Argyle diamond mine, one of the most significant diamond discoveries in history. Located in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia, the Argyle mine didn’t just bring the world some of the rarest and most valuable pink diamonds—it revolutionized the field of geology and diamond exploration forever. For decades, diamonds were believed to only form in kimberlite pipes, volcanic formations that had been the traditional focus of diamond exploration worldwide. But the discovery of Argyle’s lamproite-hosted diamonds in the 1970s turned this assumption on its head. Argyle proved that diamonds could be found in a completely different type of volcanic rock, rewriting geological models and expanding the scope of diamond exploration to new and unexpected locations. In this deep dive into Argyle’s legacy, we explore how this unique mine produced over 90% of the world’s pink diamonds, gemstones so rare and sought after that they fetched millions of dollars in auctions. But beyond their beauty, Argyle’s diamonds had a lasting impact on Australia’s economy and the global diamond market. We’ll walk you through the geological formations that made Argyle possible, the science behind the pink diamonds, and how the mine’s innovative approach to mining and processing set new standards in the industry. From the initial discovery by CRA Exploration (now Rio Tinto) to the shift from open-pit mining to underground operations, we examine the entire life cycle of the mine. You'll learn how X-ray luminescence and heavy media separation technologies were used to sort the diamonds, and how the mine adapted its operations as it transitioned into deeper parts of the Earth. We’ll also explore how the closure of Argyle in 2020 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of incredible wealth, scientific advancements, and a treasure trove of beautiful pink diamonds. This is not just a story about diamonds; it's a story about geological discovery, innovation in mining, and the way one discovery can reshape an entire industry. Whether you're fascinated by the science of geology, the allure of rare gemstones, or the history of Australian mining, this video will take you on a journey through one of the most groundbreaking diamond discoveries of all time. As Argyle evolved, so did its impact on Australia’s economy. Located in a remote region, the mine provided jobs, infrastructure, and economic stability to the local communities. It became a cornerstone of Australian mining and established Australia as a major player in the global diamond trade. Argyle also forged a special place in the hearts of gem enthusiasts and collectors who valued its diamonds not just for their quality, but for their rarity and connection to this remote corner of the world. Though the Argyle mine officially closed in 2020 after decades of operation, its legacy continues. The diamonds it produced—particularly the iconic pinks—will remain in high demand, their rarity increasing as supplies dwindle. More importantly, Argyle will be remembered for changing the landscape of geology and diamond exploration, pushing the boundaries of where diamonds can be found and how they are mined. Even as the mine fades into history, its impact on the global market and scientific understanding of diamond geology will be felt for generations to come. This video takes you on a journey through the full history of the Argyle diamond mine, from its discovery in the untamed wilderness of the Kimberley to its role as a leading force in the world of luxury gems. Join us as we uncover the science, history, and lasting influence of one of the world’s most important diamond mines. 🎥 If you would like to support this channel, consider joining our Patreon: https://patreon.com/OzGeology 👉 You can also click the "join" button to join our Youtube channel's membership. Every contribution helps to create more videos. Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxLrvjGBzYmj8W1rJToPasg/join Here's the link to my second channel - PaleoZoology: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsg3FupO7inx3UOieayzF1g 00:00-00:40-The Discovery That Changed Geology Forever 00:41-01:28-Overview of the Argyle Diamond Mine 01:29-02:00-The Uniqueness of The Argyle Diamond Deposit 02:01-04:06 -The Geology of The Argyle Lamproite Volcanic Pipe 04:07-05:34-Why The Argyle Diamonds Are So Special 05:35-06:11-The Discovery of The Argyle Lamproite Pipe 06:12-08:05-How The Diamonds Were Mined 08:06-08:40-The Significance of The Argyle Diamond Mine in Australia & The World 08:41-09:10-The Absurd Price of Argyle Pink Diamonds 09:11-10:28-Conclusion & Impact of The Argyle Diamond Mine on The World 10:29-11:07-Second Channel & Patreon/Youtube Member Thankyou