Exploration

Our global diamond exploration portfolio currently encompasses exploration in Canada, India, southern and western Africa, Brazil, Russia and Australia. To support these exploration initiatives, we have created a global network of five diamond exploration laboratories, one per continent, and a leading-edge mineral chemistry analytical facility.

In 2006, Rio Tinto Diamonds established a Centre of Technical Excellence which comprises of a small team of experienced specialists who support more advanced evaluation projects and promote and share best practice in the Rio Tinto Group. Projects undertaken by the Centre include the development of enhanced sorting technology and new diamond preparation and cleaning techniques. The Centre of Technical Excellence works with Rio Tinto Exploration and the diamond sales and marketing team to make sure that Rio Tinto's diamond skills and knowledge are utilised effectively to sustain and grow the business.

The most advanced exploration project undertaken by Rio Tinto Diamonds to date is at Bunder in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, where Rio Tinto has discovered a cluster of eight diamondiferous lamproites. Rio Tinto has spent more than US$25 million over the last five years on diamond exploration in India and is the first foreign company to be granted a prospecting license there.