‘Absolute showstopper:’ $500k quokka released in Western Australia

A rare quokka using some of the nation’s most precious resources has been released by a Western Australian jeweller.

A quokka created with some of Australia’s most precious gems using gold and Argyle pink diamonds has been released by a Western Australian jeweller.

The quokkas, worth $500,000 each, stand at 12cm tall and are made out of 280g of gold and 1000 diamonds.

Linneys creative director Justin Linney told host Chrissy Morrissey there were only three available in the world.

“It’s an absolute showstopper,” Ms Morrissey told 6PR.

WA jeweller Linneys has created a $500,000 quokka using 3.39 carats of Argyle Pink Diamonds. Picture: Supplied

Mr Linney said Argyle pink diamonds appreciated in value between 10 to 30 per cent year on year depending on the size.

“They are really ironically Western Australian and something they were really proud to showcase,” he said.

Quokkas are unique to Western Australia and are often described as the nation’s happiest animals, they are most commonly found on Rottnest Island about 21kms west of Fremantle.

“The ‘Argyle pink quokka’ really pays homage to Western Australia’s most iconic natural wonders,” Mr Linney said.

“It’s bringing together the rare and sought after Argyle pink diamonds and of course, the loveable quokka.”

Quokkas are endemic to Western Australia and most commonly found on Rottnest Island. Photo: Tourism WA.

Mr Linney said the ornament had taken about a year to create and the designers kept the project top secret after they put their hand up to take part in the Argyle Pink Diamonds Icon Partner program.

He said they wanted to create something different that had never been done before and rather than make a pendant or ring they decided to pushed the boundaries of art and design.

“It is larger scale than we normally work and sit at about 12cm tall and is nearly 280g of gold and almost 1000 diamonds,” he said.

“It is a quokka that certainly sparkles and there are only three available in the world.”