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 only five diamonds of this size. This unique discovery occurred in April 2026, shortly after the mine’s operational period ended. As noted by the Gem and Jewelery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), located approximately 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle in the Northwest Territories (NT), the mine has played a major role in the industrial economy of Northern Canada, producing over 150 million carats of diamonds since its first production in 2003. This beautiful yellow diamond symbolizes the success of the operation, representing both the innovations of modern Arctic scientific design and modern partnerships in natural resource management, and celebrates a transformative period for the world diamond industry.
a notable 158 carat yellow diamond search in canada
According to the Gem and Jewelery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), this 158.20-carat yellow gem is an exceptional find for the Diavik site, which used to produce mainly high-quality white diamonds. Yellow diamonds account for less than 1 percent of the mine’s total historical production. This recovery marks the fifth time that more than 100 carats of yellowstone has been discovered at the facility, highlighting the rare geological conditions of the kimberlite pipe beneath Lac de Grasse.
Diavik’s two decades of Arctic mining
According to the Northwest Territories government, since commercial production began in 2003, Diavik has operated as a joint venture, becoming one of North America’s most productive mining operations. By the time it ceased production in April 2026, more than 150 million carats of diamonds had been successfully extracted from the mine. The operation is known for its engineering flexibility in the sub-Arctic, utilizing complex water-management dikes and integrated wind-diesel power systems.
Indigenous participation in site restoration
Following the end of extraction, the site is now in the 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 that the land is returned to a self-sustaining ecosystem.