CVD and HPHT Lab Grown Diamonds: Differences that You Must Know
April 22, 2024Introduction of lab-grown diamonds to the market, has commenced a new era for jewelry. This new entry has startled everyone to wonder about the latest buzz. Lab-grown diamonds are getting so much attention from the people across the globe leaving people to wonder about its origin. And when we are out in market to purchase these trending stones, we are presented with two options - CVD diamonds or HPHT diamonds, which does nothing much but make us puzzled.
So, what exactly sets them apart?
People are seen opting for synthetic diamonds over traditional ones which might ignite the curiosity to find our of their origin and the why are they getting such popularity!
We have brought your with every information right here. It's this difference in manufacturing processes of lab grown diamonds, that results in the availability of options like - CVD and HPHT diamonds.
Let's delve into what distinguishes them, but before that a quick recap of lab grown diamonds for you…
Lab Grown Diamonds and Their Formation
Lab grown diamonds are eco-friendly as they are cultivated in controlled settings by experts. These dazzling lab grown products mirror their natural counterparts in almost all aspects, whether its physical or optical.
Lab grown diamonds have same chemical composition and offer same brilliance like mined diamonds at cost-effective prices. Every lab-made diamond has its own shape, clarity, and color, just like natural gems that each have their own special story.
Diamond, the toughest substance on Earth, has a fascinating story of how it forms, whether deep underground or in labs with experts. The same process used to create mined diamonds is replicated in labs, binding carbon atoms under high pressure and temperature.
The two different methods adopted for lab grown diamond formation are High temperature, high pressure or chemical vapor deposition are .
HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) diamonds are the products of these processes.
Why should you be familiar with the differences between HPHT and CVD diamonds?
Diamonds are forever!
While considering a partner for life, it's very important to make a well-researched decision to welcome them as well. This research involves understanding their formation process, nature, price, and the benefits of buying, and other factors.
You will inevitably choose the one that best suits your preferences, whenever you have two options. Therefore, we are here to help you navigate through these aspects, making your decision-making process easier.
Difference Between CVD Diamonds and HPHT Lab Grown Diamonds
| Aspect | HPHT Diamonds | CVD Diamonds |
| Introduction of Technology | HPHT method of lab grown diamond production was introduced in 1955. To enhance stone color General Electric later enhanced the process in 1999. | CVD technique for diamond production was introduced in 1980s. So, its relatively a new advancement. |
| Formation Process | Diamond seed crystals are exposed to extreme pressure and high temperature to form HPHT diamonds. | Diamond seeds are exposed to a mixture of carbon-rich gases, in controlled conditions, to form CVD diamonds. Process is named Chemical Vapor Deposition process. |
| Required Conditions | Extreme conditions which involve high temperature, around 1,400-1,600 degrees Celsius and high pressure, around 5-6 Giga Pascals (GPa) are required for growth of these lab grown diamonds. | While CVD process requires typically around 1-4 Giga Pascals (GPa) and 700-900 degrees Celsius. which is comparatively low. |
| Required Time | To reach a desired size HPHT process can take few weeks to months. | While CVD diamonds are formed in just weeks. |
| Price | Expensive. | Affordable. |
| Availability of Sizes | Since the process takes time so in terms of size and availability HPHT diamonds are limited. | Larger sizes and more quantities are easily available. |
| Environmental and Ethical Concerns | Less eco-friendly as they require more energy and time to grow. | Comparatively more eco-friendly |
| Post-treatments | Not required, so whatever is grown we get as such. | Post-treatment is required for enhancing the color. |
| Growth Morphology | Typically grow in 14 directions, so a cuboctahedron diamond shape can be seen. | Grows in one direction, so a cube shape diamond is cultivated. |
| Color and Clarity | HPHT diamonds exhibit a yellowish or brownish tint. | CVD diamonds show good clarity and are often colorless. |
| Applications | Being durable and of high quality HPHT diamonds are used in high-end jewelry, cutting tools, and industrial applications. | Due to their purity CVD diamonds are also used in scientific research and technological applications, besides gemstone jewelry. |
Wrapping Up:
Similar in appearance and appeal HPHT and CVD diamonds differ in their formation process, color, clarity, nature, growth morphology, etc. And all this ultimately affects their cost and quality to some extent.
Therefore, the choice between the two, ultimately depends on individual preferences and specific requirements.