Rio’s Argyle diamonds featured on Australian coin

The Perth Mint issued a Jewelled Tiger coin crafted from 10oz of 99.99% pure gold and adorned with a sculptured three-dimensional 18 carat rose gold tiger pavé set with nearly three carats of fancy vivid intense pink diamonds from Rio Tinto’s Argyle mine.
 
In a press release, the mint said that the coin also includes two vibrant green Columbian Muso Emeralds, which represent the eyes.
 
“Surmounting the coin, the tiger is presented with a fierce expression to display its dominance as it ascends a stylised rocky outcrop of mountain ranges with oriental foliage,” the brief states. “The design is headed by the inscription ‘The Jewelled Tiger’ and includes the Chinese character for ‘tiger’.”
 
This is the third release from the Perth Mint’s range of diamond-studded coins showcasing Asia’s mythical creatures.
 
“Our 2018 Jewelled Phoenix and 2019 Jewelled Dragon coins sold out within weeks of their respective release dates,” the institution’s CEO, Richard Hayes, said in a statement, adding that he expects a similar consumer behaviour with the new release priced at $259,000.