What significant development in the cutting industry was influenced by the Argyle mine in Australia?

The Argyle mine in Australia played a crucial role in the rise of the cutting industry in India. As one of the largest producers of diamonds, particularly pink diamonds, Argyle significantly increased the global supply of rough diamonds. This influx of rough stones contributed to the establishment and growth of the diamond cutting and polishing industry in India, especially in regions like Surat, where skilled artisans began to flourish.

India's cutting industry benefitted from the competitive prices and diverse range of rough diamonds available from Argyle, enabling the country to become a global hub for diamond processing. The expertise and infrastructure developed in India allowed for increased efficiency and quality in cutting, which helped the nation emerge as a major player in the diamond market.

Understanding this context highlights the interconnectedness of diamond production and cutting, and how developments in one area can significantly boost another.