Diamond giant Rio Tinto announced the launch of its new publication – "Rare and Collectable" – which focuses on the unique market position occupied by the rare pink diamonds from its Argyle Diamond Mine.

The launch was timed to coincide with the 26th Argyle Pink Diamonds Tender.

According to the diamond producer, Rare and Collectable "places the rarity of Argyle pink diamonds in the context of global supply and demand and the resulting strong price appreciation.

"This publication is considered timely given the increasing propensity for affluent investors and collectors to diversify their portfolios through acquisitions of rare diamonds."

Rio Tinto's Argyle Diamond Mine, which was discovered in 1979, produces virtually the entire supply of the world's pink diamonds.

Tom Albanese Chief Executive of Rio Tinto added: "Thirty years ago there were very few people who believed Australia could hold the secret of diamonds – even fewer could foresee the discovery of the rarest of all diamonds – the Argyle pink diamond. Patience, diligence and the efforts of resource experts and investors have been rewarded, as events of the past three decades have unfolded."

"Rare and Collectable" also provides an insight into the separate market position held by pink diamonds in comparison to its white counterparts, along with the compelling metrics that are driving the value of pink diamonds, even in times of economic uncertainty.

Jean-Marc Lieberherr, Rio Tinto's General Manager of the Sales and Marketing added: "In the rarified world of Argyle pink diamonds we are continuing to see strong demand in both the mature and emerging markets. On the supply side there are no known pink diamond mines or deposits and even if another was found, it takes at least 10 years for a mine to proceed from discovery to production."