End of an Era: Iconic Australian Argyle Pink Diamonds Brand Sold to British Jeweller

LONDON/PERTH — In a landmark transition for one of the world’s most coveted gemstones, mining giant Rio Tinto has officially handed over the keys to the Argyle Pink Diamonds brand to the UK-based luxury jewellery group, Boodles.

Finalised on October 1, 2026, the sweeping agreement sees Boodles acquire the very last remaining inventory of the ultra-rare pink diamonds, alongside all associated trademarks, websites, and digital assets. The sale writes the final corporate chapter for the legendary Argyle mine in Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region, which ceased operations in November 2020 after producing more than 90% of the global pink diamond supply for nearly four decades.

The new custodian of the brand, Boodles, is a heavyweight in the upper echelons of the international diamond trade. Founded in 1798, the elite, family-owned British house boasts 228 years of heritage and caters to an exclusive, high-net-worth clientele. Renowned for their bespoke, high-jewellery designs and prestigious luxury status, Boodles has incorporated Argyle diamonds into its creations for over 40 years and has pledged to responsibly steward the brand into the future.

However, for many in the local industry, the announcement carries a distinct sting. The Argyle pink diamond is widely regarded as a homegrown natural wonder, a fiercely protected symbol of Australian luxury intrinsically tied to the rugged landscape of the East Kimberley. While the brand will undoubtedly be well-preserved within the glittering showrooms of British high society, there is a lingering sense of disappointment in seeing the ultimate ownership of such an iconic Australian treasure permanently transition to an overseas enterprise.

 

In my opinion its a shame, surely it could have remained here in Australia.