Diamonds naturally form within the Earth's mantle, which are later extracted for making jewelry. But extracting diamonds from nature every time is not an environmentally-friendly activity. Plus, natural diamonds are too expensive. Compared to this, lab-grown diamonds are now a safer and budget-friendly alternative. Several years of research and technological advancements have resulted in the production of lab-grown diamonds. They have become extremely popular among consumers as they are viewed as a more financially viable option.
Lab-grown diamonds are also called synthetic diamonds. Let's understand the methods employed to make these diamonds just as strong and shiny as natural diamonds.
Do you know the tech behind lab-grown diamonds?
There are several steps involved in producing lab-grown diamonds. CVD and HPHT are two popular methods used to make these diamonds.
The first step is collecting seed. A diamond seed is sourced from a natural diamond or an already existing lab-grown diamond. This seed acts as the base and undergoes several processes before becoming the actual diamond we see in jewelry shops.
Let’s decode the HPHT method
HPHT stands for High Pressure-High Temperature. This process mimics the conditions found under the Earth’s mantle to crystallise the seed. The seed is kept in temperatures that exceed 2000 degrees Celsius and 5 GigaPascals pressure, along with carbon and other materials essential to facilitate the formation of diamond. With the help of high temperature and pressure, the seed transforms into a diamond as carbon atoms crystallise.
HPHT was one of the first methods used to create lab-grown diamonds. This technique is highly useful to enhance the colour of diamonds.
How does chemical vapour facilitate diamond formation?
CVD stands for Chemical Vapour Deposition. It involves keeping the diamond seed in a chamber of gases. The chamber is heated to 900-1200 degrees Celsius. Carbon-rich gases ionize through the application of microwaves and lasers. This ionization of gases leads to the accumulation of atoms on the diamond seed. Layers are formed one by one on the seed, which eventually become a large diamond crystal.
CVD is the most preferred method to grow diamonds in labs. They offer better control and scalability.
It’s possible to produce diamonds in various sizes and shapes using HPHT and CVD methods.
A quick glance at the key differences between HPHT and CVD
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HPHT uses extreme heat and pressure to produce diamonds
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CVD produces diamonds by building atoms one on another with the help of carbon gases, and subsequently forming layers
What happens next?
No matter what method is used to create the diamond, it goes through cutting, polishing, grading, and certification. Skilled professionals cut and polish the stones to prepare them for jewelry setting. After that, gems are classified into different categories on the basis of carat weight, clarity, cut, and colour. Gemologists then evaluate the purity, fluorescence, and overall quality of diamonds with the help of advanced screening technology.
Are lab-grown diamonds worth considering?
Consumers today are more conscious of their choices. They want to make responsible purchasing decisions that don’t adversely affect the environment or society. Lab-grown diamonds are not bound by geological limitations. Any number of diamonds could be produced in the laboratories without posing a threat to the environment.
There is also no risk of running out of lab-grown diamonds as they are created using man-made methods. Jewelers have the flexibility to experiment with different sizes, cuts, and custom creations without the restrictions that come with naturally extracted diamonds.
Lab-grown diamonds are getting really popular for all kinds of jewelry, like engagement rings and necklaces. The biggest advantage is that people can buy their choice of jewelry without burning a hole in their pocket.
Shop your diamonds from the most trusted jeweller
If you are looking for high-quality diamonds that suit your preferences, House of Raayaa is your one-stop destination. Explore our newest jewelry collection to make a classy and elegant statement on special occasions.