Petra Diamonds halts 2020 production target

The mining veteran could face competition from internal candidates, including former head of UK gas company Centrica, Sam Laidlaw, who now sits on Rio’s board.

New reports highlighting the environmental dangers posed by mineral exploitation at the Mining Arch have emerged, as Venezuelan officials try to convince Alrosa to invest in the project.

Another huge diamond has been released from the Earth's clutches following an astounding discovery in the West African country earlier this year.

The large rough, gem-quality stones range from 82 to 163 carats.

Indian diamonds are known for their quality, particularly those from the ancient Golconda mines, famous for producing a rare kind of extremely clear gem.

Aggregate market cap of the top 100 junior mining companies was up 7% to $12.2 billion, a level not seen since 2010, but the group significantly underperformed the Venture Exchange as a whole.

Results of a preliminary economic assessment have revealed the potential for the development of an underground mine at the company's mine in Botswana.

Firm has determined it's not economically viable to extend the life of the diamond mine, which can only be accessed by air year round, or by a winter road for five or six weeks in January and February.

The company has found six diamonds larger than 100 carats in the first nine months of the year, compared with just four throughout 2016.