In this brief article, we’ll cover the top countries in diamond production and their efforts to capitalize on the mineral. If you want more insights into the global diamond market, read Top 20 Diamond Producing Countries in the World.
5. South Africa
Average Annual Diamond Production: 8.98 million carats
South Africa’s diamond industry has deep roots anchored by the historic Kimberley and the active Venetia mines. The sector has evolved from the pioneering days symbolized by Kimberley’s Big Hole to sophisticated deep-level mining at the Finsch and Cullinan mines. South Africa consistently exports diamonds valued at over $1 billion annually, ranking among the top figures globally. Focusing on beneficiation, the country is dedicated to ensuring that its diamond mining industry not only contributes significantly to the economy and technological progress but also adheres to ethical mining standards.
4. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Average Annual Diamond Production: 13.2 million carats
Despite being endowed with vast natural resources, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains one of the poorest countries globally. The country is committed to the Kimberley Process and aims to address the challenges associated with conflict diamonds through regulatory reforms. Nevertheless, the diamond mining sector is largely unregulated, which is underscored by the recent mine collapse in the Kasai province that resulted in six fatalities.
3. Canada
Average Annual Diamond Production: 17.8 million carats
Canada’s diamond production exemplifies modern, responsible mining. In the sub-arctic regions where operations such as Diavik and Ekati are located, environmental responsibility and agreements with Indigenous communities are integral to the industry. These ensure that the extraction of high-value stones adheres to the highest ethical standards. According to the Kimberley Process, Canada’s annual diamond exports average $1.5 billion, and the country is also a significant diamond importer due to domestic consumption demands.
2. Botswana
Average Annual Diamond Production: 22.4 million carats
Botswana has leveraged its diamond resources into a cornerstone of economic growth. Strategic partnerships within the diamond industry have led to the development of some of the world’s richest mines, including Orapa and Jwaneng. Reports from Reuters state that Botswana remains steadfast in its quest for a larger share of diamond revenue from its longstanding partnership with De Beers. The two have operated through the Debswana Diamond Company, their 50/50 joint venture established over fifty years ago. Notably, the two entities’ thrice-extended diamond sales agreement, active since 2011, is nearing its expiration.
De Beers, a part of Anglo American Plc, currently obtains 75% of the diamonds mined by Debswana. The remaining 25% is allocated to the Okavango Diamond Company, a state-owned entity established in 2011. It marks Botswana’s initial steps toward independently selling a share of its diamonds outside the traditional De Beers network. The President of Botswana has been advocating for an increase in the quantity of diamonds sold through alternative channels, signaling a move toward a more independent sales strategy for the country’s gems.
1. Russia
Average Annual Diamond Production: 40.1 million carats
Russia is home to five of the world’s ten largest diamond mines and produces the most diamonds in the world. Alrosa, the state-controlled mining giant, leads Russia’s diamond production, overseeing major operations in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) and the Arkhangelsk region. The country’s method of combining large-scale operations with an aggressive marketing strategy is focused on maximizing market dominance. Russia’s investment in mining infrastructure and technology has facilitated efficient resource extraction. For example, the Mirny mine is an engineering marvel, representing one of the largest man-made excavated holes in the world, and has historically been a substantial diamond source.
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