Gold was first discovered in Brokopondo in 1879 and since then approximately half of the recorded production of Suriname has been produced in the district of Brokopondo.
The history Rosebel, which lies in the Brokopondo district, can be found below.
The Rosebel property is awarded to state-owned mining company Grassalco (NV Grasshopper Aluminum Company)
1979A Mineral Agreement is signed between the Government of Suriname, Grassalco and Golden Star.
1992Earn-in agreement is signed between Cambior and Golden Star.
1994Grassroots exploration and a feasibility study are conducted
1997Cambior purchases the remaining 50% interest from Golden Star and becomes full owner on Rosebel Gold Mines N.V.
2001Rosebel Gold Mines N.V. is established
The feasibility study is finalized
2002Phase I construction (Design 4.8 Mpa) is completed
The Mineral Agreement is amended
2003Commercial production starts
2004Phase II expansion (Design 5.8 Mpa) is completed
2005IAMGOLD acquires Rosebel through the acquisition of Cambior
2006Record mine throughput and gold production is achieved.
IAMGOLD acquires 86% of Euro Ressources S.A. which holds a royalty interest in Rosebel.
2008The second amendement to the Mineral Agreement is signed
2013