UNDERSTANDING LAB GROWN DIAMONDS

Lab diamonds have the same physical and optical qualities of a natural earth mined diamonds but are created ethically in a controlled lab environment. They are an excellent way of buying a larger diamond at a fraction of the cost. They are often graded by GIA or IGI and follow the same grading of the 4 C's as natural earth mined diamonds. As a matter of fact, in a traditional diamond tester they would test positive for a diamond.

There are two main methods for growing lab-grown diamonds: Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT).

  1. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD):

    • Process: In the CVD method, a small, flat substrate, typically a slice of natural diamond, is placed in a vacuum chamber. A mixture of gases, usually containing carbon-rich gases like methane, is introduced into the chamber. These gases are then subjected to high-energy microwaves or other energy sources, causing the carbon atoms to break apart. The carbon atoms then precipitate onto the substrate, forming a diamond crystal layer.
    • Advantages: CVD allows for the precise control of the diamond growth process, making it possible to create diamonds with specific characteristics, sizes, and shapes. It is also considered a more flexible and scalable method.

  2. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT):

    • Process: In the HPHT method, a small seed diamond is placed in a press where high pressure (around 5-6 Giga Pascals) and high temperature (around 1,500 to 2,000 degrees Celsius) conditions similar to those found in the Earth's mantle are created. Carbon source material, usually graphite or a diamond powder mixture, is then exposed to these extreme conditions, causing it to crystallize and form a diamond around the seed.
    • Advantages: HPHT is often faster than CVD, and it can produce larger diamonds. It is also a method that closely replicates the natural diamond formation process, although it can be less flexible in terms of customization.