World's largest producer and distributor of diamonds.
Diamonds were first discovered in southern Africa in the mid 1860s on the de Beer farm. The urban centre that resulted is now known as Kimberley . Two diamond mines dug there (no longer in operation) were at one time the world's most productive. HIV . De Beers also has interests in synthetic diamonds, minerals and ores, and in mining production and processing equipment. Through its large market share and its willingness to work with competitors, De Beers has continued to influence the price and availability of diamonds worldwide, prompting accusations that it has engaged in unfair trading practices. A controlling interest in the company is held by Anglo American PLC.