The Irkutsk research institute of precious and rare metals and diamonds (Irgiredmet) was founded in 1871. Irgiredmet provides comprehensive services to companies developing ore, placer and technogenic deposits. The institute provides services for both the Group and third parties.

The main activities of Irgiredmet include:

• Mineral assays
• Research and development
• Design and engineering
• The supply of equipment, materials and spare parts
• Construction
• General engineering of processing facilities

Irgiredmet has 7 specialized technological laboratories. It employs around 300 highly qualified specialists, 28 of whom are educated to PHD level and 6 of whom are doctors of sciences. Over the past five years, Irgiredmet has analysed c.200 deposits, developed 50 mining projects, and commissioned dozens of processing plants.  The quality of Irgiredmet services is confirmed by a number of leading Russian and international mining companies.