Delegates at the 12th International Kimberlite Conference were informed that Canada’s diamond production is still in its early stages, with potential for further discoveries. Karen Costello, executive director of the Northwest Territories (NWT) and Nunavut Chamber of Mines, highlighted that the diamond industry in Canada began relatively recently in the 1990s, whereas in Africa and South America, it has a history spanning over a century, suggesting there are still unexplored opportunities.
Costello noted that despite fluctuations in diamond prices, exploration activities remain robust. Mine operators are focusing on expanding within their current operations and exploring nearby areas for additional mineral deposits. She also mentioned the growing interest in critical minerals exploration, although it has yet to match the investment levels seen in diamond mining and traditional exploration efforts.
Currently, Canada hosts three operational diamond mines: Ekati, Canada’s first diamond mine which commenced production in 1998, Diavik established in 2003, and Gahcho Kue which began operations in 2016.
