JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Aim-quoted diamond mining and exploration company Firestone Diamonds sold 55 950 ct of diamonds in two diamond tenders in February and April, realising revenues of some $5.1-million.
The average price per carat realised at the tenders, which were held at the independently operated Antwerp World Diamond Centre's facility, increased from $84.49/ct at the February tender to $101.67/ct in April.
The February tender, which was attended by 80 diamond buyers, saw the sale of 35 718 ct, realising revenues of $3.02-million, while revenue of $2.06-million was achieved through the sale of 20 232 ct in April.
Despite the higher prices, no high-value stones were tendered at the April tender, which was attended by 109 diamond buyers.
Firestone CEO Tim Wilkes said the board was “extremely comforted” by the results of the latest tenders.
“Not only are the diamond prices up considerably since February, but they have increased across the board, demonstrating a higher level of confidence in the sector. This is further endorsed by the increasing number of diamond buyers present at April's tender," he commented.