Rio Tinto has named two luxury jewellers as first “Icon Partners” licensed to continue using the Argyle Pink Diamonds^TM brand following the 2020 closure of the Argyle mine in Western Australia.

As icon partners, diamond jewellers John Calleija and John Glajz will have free rein to use the legendary brand for the remaining polished Argyle pink diamonds inventory and develop jewellery and limited-edition pieces.

The Icon Partner^TM programme is part of Rio Tinto’s strategy to shape the future of the Argyle Pink Diamonds^TM brand. After the mine’s closure in November 2020, Rio Tinto has retained and managed the brand and has been working with its exclusive distribution network to ensure it remains the world’s only official custodian of Argyle pink diamonds.

John Calleija, an award-winning designer and owner of luxury jewellery house Calleija, has worked with Argyle pink diamonds since the mine started operating in 1983. He is renowned for producing some of the most celebrated Argyle pink diamond jewellery and wearable treasures. 

Singapore-based John Glajz of rare gem specialist Glajz THG meanwhile has been creating bespoke Argyle pink diamond jewellery and collectibles for more than 25 years, including tiaras, collectible coins and exclusive designs in collaboration with Mints, manufacturers and luxury diamond jewellery houses. 

Rio Tinto said it is also introducing a certification service, a concierge trading platform for certified Argyle pink diamonds, a new Beyond Rare^TM Tender platform for special sales events, and several strategic collections and collaborations involving existing inventory and the secondary market.