argyle mine
Established in the Kimberly region of West Australia, the Argyle mine commenced open pit mining operations in December of 1985. While the diamonds initially unearthed were of a lesser value when compared to the global average; the mine had immense volume and the precious stones had a grade whose richness would eventually rewrite geological textbooks. As operations progressed, Argyle ultimately became the fourth largest diamond producer by volume worldwide and contributes to roughly 90% of naturally colored diamonds even today.
Argyle mine will be officially closing in early 2020 and through various partners, Four Hundred has gained exclusive access to visit the famed mine before its closure.
Great speculation has risen during the past years regarding how the official closure of the mine will ultimately impact the industry as a whole. Up to this day there has been no evidence of a new mine being found that could potentially fill the gap Argyle will leave, and with good reason; exploration for diamond mines is both a very long and often extremely expensive process. Even if a new mine is found kimberlite samples will have to fulfill a very specific P+L order for operations to ensue.
There are in fact numerous mines throughout the globe that produce colored diamonds (prime examples are in India, Brazil, and Russia), however, none of these can rival the magnificence of Argyle’s stones, especially the unique “bubble gum” hue of its famous pink diamonds.
These tenders are truly a staple in the diamond investment market, bringing some of the most beautiful and valuable precious stones the industry has to offer. Each year’s magnificent and unique collection outperforms that of previous tenders, and 2018 was no exception. Rio Tinto (a leading global mining group that focuses on finding, mining and processing the Earth's mineral resources) happily announced that last year’s tender was the most successful in the company's history, showing a 400% appreciation for diamond prices. It was so successful in fact, that it surpassed 2017's "The Custodians of Rare Beauty" and 2016's “Chroma Collection” which featured the extremely rare 2.83-carat “Argyle Violet”.
This is definitely a sign that demand (and competition) for such exclusive colored diamonds is increasing rapidly. With closure being imminent, perhaps this is the ideal time to consider investing in Argyle diamonds. There are roughly 120 days until this mine stops producing which means that the already rare Argyle stones will become even rarer, with pink diamonds from the mine being potentially finite.
proposed itinerary
Please find below a rough itinerary for the extremely rare opportunity to visit the Argyle mine and view its precious pink diamonds.
Dates Available: August or September of 2019
Spaces Available: 10
Inclusions: Private jet transfer from Sydney to Kununurra and Kununurra to Sydney. Three nights stay at the exclusive El Quester Resort (about two hours away from the mine via airplane transfer) and two guided activities on-site.
Day 1: Arrival to Kununurra, guided activity of choice.
Day 2: Private visit to Argyle Mine.
Day 3: Guided activity of choice followed by private dinner at El Questro with a viewing of the pink diamonds and opportunity to purchase (only if desired).
Day 4: Private jet transfer from Kununurra to Sydney.
guided activity highlights
Chamberlain Gorge Cruises
Boating the Chamberlain Gorge is a mist. Only accessible by boat, this 3 km fresh waterhole is bound by diverse flora and fauna and belittled by a towering escarpment. Enjoy sparkling wine and fresh fruit as you take in the breathtaking scenery. As your Ranger about the cheeky Archerfish and barramundi you can feed. 1.5 hours
Guided Barramundi 4WD Fishing Tour (to remote areas)
Head out on a 4WD fishing adventure with a fishing guide to a spot on the Pentecost River, an hour’s drive from El Questro Station. With a little local knowledge you can try your hand at catching the “elusive” Barramundi or even a Mangrove Jack, Threadfin Salmon, Black Bream or Catfish. You don’t need to be an expert to jump on this tour, your guide can teach you the basics as you go. There’s plenty of wildlife viewing to be had while you are out there, the Estuarine Crocodile and Sea Eagles are a common sighting along the Pentecost River. All fishing gear, breakfast and lunch, snacks and drinks are provided. 5 hours (subject to tides)
Bush Culture & El Questro History Tour
An insight into the pioneering heritage and characters that ran El Quester when it was a working station. Along the journey learn about Indigenous people’s use of different bush plants, included uses for medicine and remedies, weapons and even fish poison. This tour includes morning tea enjoyed at a shady waterhole. 4 Hours.
El Questro or Emma Gorge Full Day Tour
This tour offers some of the highlights of the Kimberley and gives an informative overview of El Quester. The tour starts with a guided walk up El Quester or Emma Gorge, exclusive access to Zebedee Springs, “Beef and Barra” lunch and The Steakhouse followed by an afternoon Chamberlain Gorge Cruise. Departs The Station Store or pick ups available from Kununurra accommodation. 9 Hours.
Cockburn Range 4WD Circuit
Circumnavigate the Cockburn Range by 4WD. Prior to the completion of the Gibb River Road, the Karunjie Track was the original route from Derby to Wyndham and on the Northern Territory. In earlier years, drovers brought thousands of cattle along this track to the meat works at Wyndham. Venture into this spectacular country with ease in our El Quester 4WD vehicles. Morning tea is served prior to tackling the Heritage Trail. Inclusive of transfers and lunch. Tour includes Gourmet Lunch, Seasonal availability. 10 Hours.
El Questro or Emma Gorge Walk and Zebedee Springs
Departing from The Station Store and Emma Gorge Resort. Accompanied by en El Quester Ranger, the tour includes Emma Gorge, Zebedee Thermal Springs and road trnsfers. 5 Hours.
HELICOPTER SCENIC FLIGHTS
Enjoy views of El Questro denied to the earthbound! Seeing the Wilderness Park from on high is breathtaking- and from an open-door chopper, it’s truly exhilarating. It’s the only way to access distant waterholes and scenic areas, where travel by land is virtually impossible. Enjoy a scenic journey over some of E Questro’s many gorges and waterfalls, views of the majestic Cockburn Ranges and her interior, the Cockburn Maze. You can even suggest your own itinerary!
All helicopter tours depart the Station unless otherwise arranged. Minimum of 2 passengers on all flights.
Helicopter is subject to weight limits. If booking in advance you will be asked for your weights and again on arrival you will need to be weighted on site. Group tours can be arranged by prior enquiry.
Cockburn Range Sunset Flight
Landing on top of the Cockburn Ranges at sunset is an experience for the privileged few and we truly believe it is like nowhere else in the world. Your scenic flight will take you along the sheer cliffs of the Cockburn Range before landing on top with stunning views of the Pentecost River, El Quester Station and the sprawling 700,000 acres of wilderness which El Quester covers. As you sip your wine and enjoy our cheese plate selections, you will witness this amazing view in so many different lights as the sun sets on another perfect Kimberley day.
Fishing by Helicopter- Heli-Fishing Tours
Choose from local or remote destinations easily accessed from El Quester. Pristine waters, many of which are rarely fished, ensures the angler plenty of opportunities to catch Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, Bream and Threadfin Salmon. This tour requires a minimum of 2 persons. Fishing may be tidal dependent- so inquire as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. 5 Hours.
Amaro Falls by Helicopter
Discovered in the South East of the property in April 2010, Amaro Falls is the newest jewel in El Questro’s crwon. Only accessible by Helicopter this amazing wonderland is made up of 15 cascading waterfalls which range from knee-high falls to falls of 45m in height, several pristine swimming holes and some of the most breathtaking views El Quester has to offer.
Miri Miri Tour by Helicopter
Hidden in a remote corner of the Wilderness Park is Miri Miri Falls. Spring-fed water cascades over a 50 metre fall from the plateau into a deep pool, then into a dense valley of Livistona Palms and Paperbarks. Take a dip in the refreshing pool looking up at the Falls, as you enjoy one of El Questro’s most secluded attractions. Gourmet picnic lunch included. 2 Hours (Including addition scenic flight).
The Lost City Tour
At the top of El Quester Gorge lies a newly discovered ancient land. Explore with an El Quester Ranger, the intricate rock formations and cave system carved out through time. A truly unforgettable experience to add to your memories. A reasonable level of fitness is required as the tour involves scaling around crevice, drawing through openings and navigating through the darkness of caves. 2 Hours.
The Lost City and Miri Miri Tour
Lost City and Miri Miri- Combine theses two adventurous Heli Tours for a day you’ll never forget. After exploring the Lost City with an El Quester Ranger cool your heels off in the pristine Miri Miri Falls and enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch. 4.5 Hours.