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Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry photo

A diamond rough from the De Beers Victor mine in Northern Ontario

Canadian Diamonds

Birks unveils bespoke diamond service with Ontario diamonds

Northern Ontario is known for several things - fishing and bears among them. But thanks to De Beers, diamonds can now be added to the list.

The diamond giant has opened the province's first diamond mine, and the first 131 stones plucked from ground were unveiled at Birks Toronto flagship - that is one for every year the Canadian jewelry chain has been in business.

"We've sold 12 or 13 already tonight so we are off to a great start," remarked Birks president and CEO Thomas Andruskevich, at a cocktail party to celebrate the diamonds' debut.

The Ontario diamonds are not large - most are in the 1 to 2 carat range - but what they lack in size they make up for in sparkle. Most notable is that the diamond 'roughs' are a startling white, whereas most diamonds are an unappealing brownish grey prior to polishing.

In fact, the raw Ontario diamonds are so alluring, Birks is offering customers a bespoke service where they can choose a rough, commission the stone's cut and then have it mounted in a setting of their choice.

Each Ontario diamond comes with a certificate from the  government indicating the diamond number, which is also etched in the diamond itself along with a maple leaf.

"To be able to hold a diamond in your hand, that is as pure as a dewdrop and to know that it came from your home land, is incredibly inspiring," commented jewelry designer Reena Ahluwalia. She is currently working on a necklace set with Ontario diamonds that will be unveiled during the Toronto International Film Festival. Which lucky starlet will wear it remains to be seen.