The Israel Diamond Exchange (IDE) will hold a tender of rough diamonds by Rio Tinto from October 25 – 28, 2020 in the IDE International Tender Center. On offer are a unique collection of large (+10.8 Ct), high quality Specials and Fancy Colored rough diamonds, originating from the Argyle, Diavik and Murowa mines. The goods will be offered via a sealed-bid auction system, and will include large single stones, parcels and natural colored rough diamonds in a diverse range of sizes, shapes and qualities.

The Rio Tinto tender is being held in conjunction with Andre Messika Diamond Services, which will act as a neutral and independent service provider, while the mining company will handle the bidding process directly. Messika will also provide these services for other mining companies and tender houses that cannot send over their own representatives, due to the current limitations on travel.

The International Tender Center was established in 2017 order to meet the demand for rough diamonds by IDE members, who previously had to travel abroad to take part in tenders. "Since opening the Tender Center our members have been able to save considerable time and money, and have had an opportunity to bid competitively and confidently after having seen the diamonds for themselves,” said Zvika Zamir, Chairman of the International Tender Center and IDE’s Rough Diamonds Committee.

Andre Messika, a prominent diamond dealer and member of IDE with over 50 years’ experience, has created together with his son Ilan, a logistical solution to assist mining and tender companies in showcasing their diamonds in Israel. Messika decided to enable the goods to be available for inspection in order to allow the local trade to bid confidently.

Ilan Messika said that they sought a solution that would enable the goods to be available for inspection in order to allow the local trade to bid confidently. “With the constraining flight restrictions still imposed, we realized that we cannot resume normal trade operations, which was heavily dependent on travel. While the digital platforms are becoming more advanced, making a sound bid on a unique diamond will be easier when seen with our own eyes,” said Ilan Messika.

Zamir added, “International mining and tender companies such as Rio Tinto, Gem Diamonds, Grib Diamonds and others have held viewings at the International Tender Center in the past, and we look forward to welcoming them back again.”