April 30, 2020
Differences Between Natural and Synthetic Diamonds
Diamonds are considered to be one of the most valuable stones in the world, but the reality is that not all diamonds are created equal. Some are natural, having formed as a result of heat and pressure from the Earth’s mantle crystallizing carbon. Others are synthetic, grown within a controlled environment in a laboratory using a combination of high temperature and pressure.
Natural diamonds are said to have formed from millions or billions of years ago deep below the Earth’s surface. At 100 miles below the ground, the Earth’s mantle provides the perfect environment with high temperatures and pressure to crystallize carbon. Overtime, the resulting diamonds are carried up the Earth’s surface via streams of molten lava. They are then cut and fashioned into jewelry.
Synthetic diamonds, meanwhile, can be formed in one of two ways: High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) and chemical vapour deposition (CVD). Both methods are done in a laboratory.
HPHT adopts the natural processes used by the Earth to form diamonds. It involves simultaneously subjecting graphite to intense pressure and applying high heat in the form of electrical pulses. Depending on the size of the diamond, the process can take up to 6 weeks.
CVD involves placing a diamond within a de-pressuring chamber which can generate a high temperature of up to 2,000°F (1,093°C). At this point, carbon is added, which will crystallize and attach to the diamond. Through CVD, a diamond can be produced overnight.
It is very difficult to determine whether a diamond is natural or synthetic, even with the use of special equipment. Thankfully, diamonds come with certification regarding their authenticity. When buying diamonds, make sure to get this certificate.
Marry Me The Bridal Jewelry Shop only uses authentic, natural diamonds in its jewelry collection. For more information, call (02) 8856-7624 now.
