The N.W.T.’s long-standing Diavik diamond mine is ceasing operations to shift focus towards remediation. Situated approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Yellowknife, the mine, owned by Rio Tinto, has generated over 150 million carats of diamonds over its decades-long tenure.
Recently, on Tuesday, the mine officially closed its doors after employing hundreds of workers. At its peak, Diavik had a workforce of over 1,000 individuals, with some not originating from the North but expressing a desire to remain in the region.
One such individual is Sean Sinclair, hailing from Ontario but having resided in the territory for more than ten years. Sinclair started his journey with Diavik while pursuing his master’s degree, eventually progressing to the role of closure manager at the mine. Interestingly, he met his spouse in Yellowknife, who also happens to work at Diavik.
Expressing similar sentiments are other workers like Mike Lowing, the principal adviser for health, safety, and environment, who has called Yellowknife home since 1974. Despite the challenges posed by closing diamond mines, Lowing remains optimistic about the city’s future, supported by recent announcements such as Prime Minister Mark Carney’s $35-billion investment plan for the North.
With Diavik’s closure impacting various communities across the territory, individuals like Lowing are eyeing potential opportunities in upcoming projects like the Mackenzie Valley Highway and Taltson hydro expansion. Excited about the prospect, Lowing is keen on contributing to these ventures.
Furthermore, while Diavik bids farewell, there is a collective belief that mining should persist in the region. Alex Clinton, a senior adviser at Diavik with a long-standing residency in Yellowknife, envisions a resurgence in gold mining activities. Given the rising demand for gold, initiatives are underway to revitalize the sector.
Yellowknife boasts a rich history in gold mining, with recent developments like the reopening of Mon Mine after nearly three decades of dormancy. This resurgence aligns with the surging gold prices, hitting record highs in early 2026. Clinton, optimistic about the market’s resurgence, intends to continue contributing to the industry and hopes for future opportunities for his children as well.