Russian IT-Powered Mining Yields Rare 109-Carat Diamond

Digital technologies played a key role in extracting one of Russia’s most valuable gems this year—an exceptional 109.28-carat diamond from the Grib mine in Arkhangelsk.

The diamond was unearthed at the V. G. Grib mining and processing facility in the Mezen district of Arkhangelsk Oblast. Russian IT systems were used throughout the process—from excavation to the enrichment of kimberlite ore—making the discovery possible.

This is the 48th diamond of its kind found since the launch of industrial operations at the site. The Grib deposit, named after geologist Vladimir Grib, is one of Europe’s largest by reserves. Since mining began, the site has produced over 47 million carats of gemstones.

The mine is operated by AGD Diamonds, the successor to Arkhangelskgeoldobycha. The company prioritizes clean, environmentally safe technologies in its mining practices, aiming to minimize ecological impact while maintaining production efficiency.