Argyle Pink Diamond Certification: History, Provenance and Why Documentation Matters

Argyle pink diamonds are among the rarest gemstones ever discovered, celebrated for their colour, beauty and unmistakable Australian provenance. But beyond appearance alone, certification plays a defining role in authenticity, desirability and long-term value—particularly since the closure of the Argyle mine.

Understanding how Argyle pink diamonds were originally certified, and why certification cannot be replicated today, is essential for any informed buyer.

How Argyle Certified Its Pink Diamonds

Unlike independent laboratories such as GIA, Argyle did not accept diamonds for certification after purchase. Argyle pink diamond documentation was issued only at the time the diamonds were released by the mine, through an internal chain of custody program.

This means a diamond either left Argyle with certification—or it never can be certified by Argyle at all.

The Argyle Pink Diamond Certification Timeline

As pink diamonds became increasingly rare, Argyle progressively expanded its certification program to protect provenance and traceability.

2005 – Introduction of Chain of Custody Certification
Argyle Pink Diamonds introduced a formal chain of custody program for pink diamonds 0.20 carats and above.
Eligible stones were:

• Laser inscribed with a unique Argyle lot number

• Issued with an Argyle Pink Diamonds Gem Identification and Authenticity Document, confirming natural origin and Argyle provenance

2009 – Expansion to Smaller Stones
The program was extended to include Argyle pink diamonds from 0.15 carats, reflecting rising demand and collectability.

2016 – Further Expansion
Certification was expanded again to include diamonds from 0.08 carats, underscoring the growing importance of documentation even for smaller stones.

Because certification thresholds changed over time, not every genuine Argyle pink diamond will carry an original Argyle certificate, particularly smaller stones mined or sold before these programs were in place.

Argyle Certification vs GIA Reports

A common misconception is that Argyle certification works like GIA grading.

It does not.

• GIA allows diamonds to be submitted for grading at any time

• Argyle certification could only be issued at original sale by the mine

Today, there is no way to obtain a new Argyle certificate and this distinction has major implications for value.

Why Original Argyle Certificates Carry Greater Value in Australia

In the Australian market, Argyle pink diamonds accompanied by their original Argyle certificates consistently command a premium.

Original documentation:

• Provides definitive proof of Argyle origin

• Links the diamond directly to a closed and finite mine

• Enhances resale, insurance and investment confidence

• Carries strong cultural and historical significance for Australian collectors

As time passes, these certificates are becoming increasingly rare—often rarer than the diamonds themselves.

When an Argyle Certificate Is No Longer Available

Over decades of ownership, original documentation can be lost through estate transfers, resets or private sales. In these cases, independent laboratory verification becomes essential.

The most respected alternatives include:

• GSL (Gem Studies Laboratory) reports, confirming natural origin and geographic indicators

• Deltalab Australia reports, recognised for advanced origin analysis and local expertise

While these reports are not a substitute for an original Argyle certificate, they provide the strongest available confirmation of origin when original documentation no longer exists.

Buying Argyle Pink Diamonds with Confidence

When considering an Argyle pink diamond, documentation should always be part of the conversation:

• Does the diamond have an original Argyle certificate?

• If not, is there an independent report confirming origin?

• Is the pricing appropriate for the level of documentation provided?

At Hope Diamonds & Gemstones, transparency is fundamental. We clearly disclose certification status and guide our clients through what each form of documentation means—so every purchase is informed, confident and considered.

We have a great range of Pink Argyle Certified Diamonds which can be viewed right here on the website