Auckland jewellers Mark and Pamela Beckett are showing their love for New Zealand dairy farmers by giving away a two-carat diamond valued at $12,000.

And it’s not just any old diamond – it is a rare green diamond, and quite possibly the only one in New Zealand.

“Our lives over the last 40-plus years have revolved around precious gems and we believe Kiwi dairy farmers are gems too,” says Mr Beckett, who is London-trained.

“We reckon this rare green diamond is the perfect way to celebrate our dairy farmers who are committed to caring for our land and environment, and, we believe, just like diamonds, that they are here forever.”

The Becketts both hail from dairy farming families. Mark was raised on a dairy farm in Matamata, while Pamela often visited her grandparents’ dairy farm as a child on land that is now part of Auckland Airport.

The diamond is the prize in a promotion organised by DairyNZ, the industry body representing NZ dairy farmers.

Until March 10, anyone can nominate a dairy farmer they feel is worthy of receiving the diamond. The winner will be announced between March 16-18.

DairyNZ’s general manager farm performance Vanessa Winnin, says she is touched by the Becketts’ appreciation for dairy farmers.

“This is such a thoughtful gift – a true surprise and delight for farmers. While we receive praise and recognition for the work our farmers and their teams are doing on-farm and in their surrounding communities, this is the first time anyone has expressed their admiration and thanks in this way.”

To nominate a gem of a dairy farmer, see: dairynz.co.nz/diamonds