THE HPHT DIAMOND PROCESS

Many have often wondered and inquired about the process of making HPHT diamonds. In a nutshell, the process is very similar to the natural process diamonds undergo while in the ground. The natural process takes a very long time, but the actual amount of time varies, from periods as short a time as days, weeks, months to millions of years. The natural diamonds may begin to grow, and then an interruption may occur. This interruption could be a change in conditions, temperature, pressure, source of carbon. When the conditions are right again, the process starts back. The HPHT Diamond process is much quicker. In a lab environment that is extremely controlled, a special machine is used. The machine uses high temperature and high pressure equaling the pressure and temperature of the natural diamond process. The temperature created is 2600 Celsius. Specifically, atmospheric pressure (70,000 atmospheres) and temperature (3,682°F) conditions are required to bring a diamond to completion. This pressure and temperature produce incredible HPHT diamonds, which are as beautiful as natural diamonds.

The process is not as easy as it sounds. The extreme pressure and temperature tend to result in multiple cracks in the diamond. Therefore, the process requires strict expert supervision and cautious operation. As you might imagine, the necessary machinery to recreate the environment is costly and can only be located in government-approved locations. Nonetheless, the passion and allurements have kept the industry moving forward despite the negatives.

Only high clarity diamonds can be put through the process. Qualifying clarities are VS1, VS2, VVS1, VVS2, etc. All HPHT diamonds come with GIA authorization and are certified.

Finally, HPHT diamonds are lower in price compared to natural diamonds, and the HPHT process does not reduce natural resources. This type of lab-grown diamond recreates the complete look and feel of the natural diamonds. Only advanced spectroscopic techniques can differentiate these two. Speak to one of our experts to learn more (212)302-7800