Upholding the value of Natural Diamonds
Nestled in the quiet hills of Little Falls, there is a mountain filled with rare earthly treasures and magic. Sparkling gems known as Herkimer diamond quartz crystals are waiting to be unearthed!
Leading independent diamond mining group, supplying gem-quality rough diamonds to the Jewellery industry safely and to the highest ethical standards.
million ounces of gold
(attributable)
Mineral Resource Authority (EMRA) (50%)
Tons Processed Annually Optimized for large-scale
Phillip Petitti
At Phil Fine Diamond Mining & Ethical Supply, diamond mining is a careful balance of geology, science, stewardship, and respect for the land. Every crystal, whether a Herkimer diamond quartz or a natural diamond, has a story that begins hundreds of millions of years beneath the Earth’s surface.
The Mining Process
Our mining approach is methodical, data-driven, and responsible.
01
Geological Study & Mapping
Mining begins long before any material is removed. Geological surveys, petrographic studies, micro-analysis, and 3D modeling are used to understand the structure of the deposit, identify crystal-bearing zones, and predict where the highest-quality specimens are likely to occur.
02
Exploration & Drilling
Core drilling programs allow geologists to extract cylindrical samples of rock from below the surface. These samples are studied to assess crystal distribution, size frequency, grade, and value. This scientific approach improves accuracy, minimizes waste, and reduces environmental impact.
03
Selective Extraction
Rather than mass excavation, our operations focus on selective, controlled extraction. Material is carefully removed and examined to preserve crystal integrity, especially critical for rare forms such as black-stemmed scepters, gem barbells, and hydrocarbon-included “black diamond” quartz.
05
Sorting & Evaluation
Once recovered, crystals are cleaned, sorted, and evaluated based on clarity, size, form, and rarity. Exceptional specimens are set aside for collectors, while others are prepared for retail or wholesale distribution.
The Mining Process
Our mining approach is methodical, data-driven, and responsible.
01
Group Digs
Phil Fine Diamond Mining & Ethical Supply welcoming group reservations for unforgettable Herkimer diamond field trips!
02
Wilderness Dig
This guided digging experience is your exclusive chance to find extremely rare Herkimer diamond formations such as scepters and barbells, as well as other crystal forms like “black diamonds,” skeletal crystals, clusters, gems, “golden healers”…and more!
03
Mineral Clubs
Phil Fine Diamond Mining & Ethical Supply is offering a special dig opportunity to mineral clubs again for the 2026 season!
Community projects
Our community development programmes aim to promote resilient, self-sustaining communities that will be able to survive once mining has ended. These programmes are intended to be income-generating and to foster sustainable livelihoods.
The consolidated lease is made up of 10 mining concessions. The metallurgical plant comprises a twin-circuit sulphide and oxide plant with conventional carbon-in-leach (CIL), including gravity recovery as well as a float and ultra-fine grind circuit.