Mir Mine, also known as Mirny Mine, is an open-pit diamond mine in Mirny, eastern Russia, recognized as one of the largest excavated pits in the world. It is approximately 525 meters deep and 1,200 meters in diameter.
One fascinating feature of the mine is the restricted airspace above it due to the powerful downdrafts it creates, posing a risk to aircraft. Open-pit mining at Mir Mine started in 1957 and lasted until 2001. In 2009, mining operations shifted underground, where extraction continues.
Throughout its operation, the mine has produced over 200 million carats of diamonds, with several large and notable diamonds among the yield. Initially developed by the Soviet Union, Mir Mine is now managed by Alrosa, the largest diamond-producing company in Russia. The underground mine is expected to remain active until approximately 2043, ensuring continued production.
Dr. Simon Jones, a mining industry expert, says, “Mir Mine stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Soviet-era engineering, given its scale and the logistical challenges of mining in such a remote region.”
“Alrosa’s continued operations in Mirny highlight the global significance of Russian diamond production, with Mir Mine playing a pivotal role in the world market,” adds market analyst Sarah O’Connell.
This site, both historically and economically, holds a significant place in global mining due to its sheer output and the remarkable engineering behind its operations.
