When it comes to lab-grown diamonds, two methods are used: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD).
This cvd vs hpht method involves placing a diamond seed in an enclosed chamber filled with carbon-rich gas at temperatures approaching 1500 degrees Fahrenheit. As the gas breaks down and deposits thin layers of carbon onto the seed crystal, growing it into an actual diamond.
Chemically and Optically Identical
Contrary to popular misconception, CVD and HPHT lab-created diamonds are chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds due to the enantiomers produced during these processes.
In the hpht diamonds process, researchers place a small diamond seed inside a container containing carbon atoms and metallic flux (a growth agent). They then expose this crystal to extreme temperatures and pressures which melts the carbon, creating a diamond around it.
The CVD process is similar to HPHT, except it involves ionizing the gas in the chamber and causing pure carbon to separate from its gas-rich environment. This makes it possible for diamond seeds to begin growing layer by layer.
Physically and Optimally Stable
There are two primary methods for lab-grown diamonds: CVD and HPHT. Both processes produce stunning, flawless stones suitable for jewellery applications.
Both methods involve placing a tiny diamond seed inside carbon, the element responsible for diamond’s crystalline structure. These seeds are then exposed to extreme heat and pressure – simulating conditions found deep within the earth that create natural diamonds.
Both diamonds are then graded and certified by either GIA or IGI, guaranteeing you the highest quality product. Once created, each stone will be expertly cut and polished for maximum brilliance.
Colour-wise, both HPHT and CVD lab-grown diamonds offer all of the popular hues: white, yellow, blue, pink and green. However, some are colour-treated after growth to give them a more desirable hue.
Cost-Effective
Lab-grown diamonds are created in a laboratory setting through one of two processes: high pressure high temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD). Both produce diamonds that are optically, physically, and chemically identical to mined gems.
HPHT involves placing a diamond seed crystal inside an enclosed chamber and heating it to 800 degrees Celsius. It then fills with carbon gases like methane which are broken down into carbon atoms by microwave plasma, stimulating growth of the diamond seed upward.
After being formed, carbon atoms combine with the diamond seed to form its crystal lattice structure. This process continues until the diamond reaches its full size.
Affordability
If you’re searching for an eco-friendly, ethically produced diamond that’s affordable, Lab Grown Diamonds may be your ideal option. They’re almost 40% less expensive than mined or naturally found diamonds and part of a supply chain that doesn’t violate human rights.
The CVD process mimics diamond formation in interstellar gas clouds out in outer space by heating a hydrocarbon gas mixture and activating it with microwaves in a vacuum chamber. This causes carbon atoms to accumulate on a substrate (a small platform containing a flat diamond seed crystal), gradually growing the diamond layer by layer.
HPHT is more costly than this process due to the need for high temperatures and pressures, while CVD can produce colourless lab grown diamonds at a more reasonable cost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lab-grown diamonds are created using two different methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). Both processes produce diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. They are also more affordable than mined diamonds, making them a great eco-friendly and ethically produced alternative. Both HPHT and CVD lab-grown diamonds offer popular hues like white, yellow, blue, pink, and green. While HPHT is generally more costly due to the need for high temperatures and pressures, CVD can produce colourless lab-grown diamonds at a more reasonable cost. Regardless of the method used, lab-grown diamonds are graded and certified by established laboratories like GIA or IGI to ensure their quality and authenticity.
