HPHT vs CVD: And actually – mined vs. lab-grown diamond?

Welcome to the world of lab-grown diamonds , where visually there is virtually no difference between a mined stone and one created in a lab. Whether it is HPHT, CVD or mined – your eye will hardly be able to tell the difference.

What is a lab-grown diamond?

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and physically identical to mined diamonds: pure carbon in a crystal lattice. They grow in weeks instead of millions of years and carry the same brilliance and hardness.

HPHT – extreme conditions, precise control

In HPHT ( High Pressure – High Temperature ), diamond seed, metal flux and graphite are subjected to a pressure of about 5 GPa and a temperature of ~1500 °C. This method:

• Typically used for stones up to 1 carat .
• Provides excellent control over crystal growth.
• It is also sometimes applied to enhance color.

CVD – thin layers, big possibilities

In CVD ( Chemical Vapor Deposition ), a gas mixture of carbon molecules is ionized and deposited layer by layer onto a diamond seed. This process:

• It is preferred by us for diamonds from 1 carat upwards .
• Allows precise control of purity and color.
• Requires more compact equipment.

Your eyesight doesn't stand a chance.

Without specialized equipment and a certificate from a recognized laboratory (e.g. IGI), even experts have difficulty distinguishing between the production methods. The chemistry and hardness are identical, and the luster is equally impressive.

Our selection formula

1. HPHT: for laboratory diamonds up to 1 ct – fine, precise and with a stable shine.
2. CVD: from 1 ct upwards – large, clean and more affordable for a larger investment.

And yet – the choice is yours.

No matter which method you choose, the proportions, symmetry, and how the stone dances with the light are important. Put the numbers aside and trust your gut feeling!