ABC article: Dirty diamonds hinted at $50m Argyle gem heist, but it would take years to catch the thieves...

[Venti25]

Hi not sure if anyone has heard of this but thought it might be an interesting read/listen for those interested in Argyle pinks.


Dirty diamonds hinted at $50m Argyle gem heist, but it would take years to catch the thieves

 

[kenny]

Fascinating!

Thanks for posting!

 

[Venti25]

Fascinating!

Thanks for posting!

Would love to hear perspectives from any trade members but not sure if it's keep mum

 

[Karl_K]

Would love to hear perspectives from any trade members but not sure if it's keep mum

I know nothing about this specific case.
Theft of diamond rough before they are processed has always been a big problem for mining companies so it does not surprise me.
This is one of the things the Kimberley process was supposed to cut down on by limiting the resale market to those willing to break the law.

 

[kenny]

I thought they searched every diamond mining employee before leaving the job.

 

[Karl_K]

I thought they searched every diamond mining employee before leaving the job.

Its oz so they had to treat miners better than in SA.

 

[Venti25]

Its oz so they had to treat miners better than in SA.

The head of Argyle security was in on it

 

[kenny]

I believe Argyle didn't let the rough stones leave their facility.
IOW they polished all their pinks, reds, violets, and blues themselves.

Was this big theft of rough when and why Argyle started assigning serial numbers, which they laser inscribed onto the girdles?

 

[Venti25]

I believe Argyle didn't let the rough stones leave their facility.
IOW they polished all their pinks, reds, violets, and blues themselves.

Was this big theft of rough when and why Argyle started assigning serial numbers, which they laser inscribed onto the girdles?

Not sure, I have not had time to listen to the podcast yet to hear if it's discussed... But possibly?

Link to "episodes" of Expanse here