How are lab grown diamonds made? At Rox Jewelers, we specialize in a multitude of services, including lab grown diamonds. We’re here to give you more information on two different growing methods, and how you can get started customizing your very own lab diamond today! Visit Rox Jewelers for the inside scoop about lab created diamonds and how they’ve made a bold entrance into the world of accessories.
What are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Before exploring their production, let’s talk about what lab created diamonds are. They are simply man-made diamonds produced in a lab, and their creation requires the help of advanced technology. These machines simulate the formation of diamonds inside of earth’s core, and use high temperatures and pressure during creation. Here we will explore the two different methods used to create lab grown diamonds.
Methods and Equipment Used to Create Lab Grown Diamonds
First, let’s take a look at the most common way to create a diamond:
High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT)
Using extreme amounts of pressure and heat leads to the manipulation of electronic, magnetic, and structural components in the diamond seed’s molecule. When you create a diamond in a lab using the HTHP method, it begins as a small diamond seed (an already established bond) and later transforms into new chemical bonds of carbon once pressurized in a belt machine and heated in a chamber. Three main press designs create the pressure necessary to produce a lab diamond, and those are:
- Belt press – This press uses an upper and lower anvil to produce pressure over one million pounds per square inch. This machine is the most effective if you’re looking to grow a diamond up to 1.5 cts.
- Cubic press – This press uses six different anvils to create the growth of diamond crystals. Every piston in the press pushes on the carbide anvil and compresses it’s raw materials to form diamond crystals.
- Split-sphere press (BARS) – Out of all three, it’s said that the most effective tool for synthesis is the Split-sphere press, or BARS press. This machine uses a combination of internal and external anvils that release hydraulic pressure in a growth chamber. Similar to the belt press, they hold the same conditions of temperature and heat, however, the equipment is smaller, leaving less space to grow your diamond.
Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
Similar to the HTHP method, CVD also uses a starter seed and high temperatures to form diamonds. However, this method doesn’t use pressure. A thick, carbon-rich gas mixture goes into a chamber and replaces the pressure instead. The gases then ionize to break down their molecular bond and allow the carbon to attach itself on to the diamond seed. This method uses less machinery and instead focuses on the gas that transforms the diamond into crystals.
While both methods will produce a synthetic diamond, make sure that you provide as many details possible about the blueprint of your diamond to your jeweler. Therefore, this information will allow them to have better judgement on what methods are appropriate for creating the piece you’re envisioning. The experts at Rox understand your needs, and we strive to help our customers create the accessory of their dreams.
Reasons to Go Lab Grown
With the help of advanced technology, jewelers have been able to mimic diamond formation that happens inside of earth’s core. These machines have helped lower carbon footprints, and reduce harmful chemicals from releasing into our environment. In addition, working alongside a jeweler allows you to customize your very own special pieces. Our jewelers at Rox dedicate their time to creating personal, unique diamond accessories. Contact us today to get started on your consultation!