Lab grown diamonds are here to stay and now the big debate is swirling around CVD Vs HPHT lab grown stones. The rise in popularity of lab grown diamonds has exploded in the last few years due to large price drops. As recently as 5 years ago, lab diamonds cost about 30% less than earth mined diamonds. But with the technological advances and DeBeers getting into the lab grown industry, prices are now as much as 80% less than a comparable earth mined stone.
There was also a stigma attached to lab diamonds. However, with the price drops and prevailing social ideas of younger consumer, that stigma has largely dissipated. You will still find older, more traditional buyers who would never buy a lab stone. And many pawn shops or resellers will not purchase lab grown diamonds in a used ring. But, on the whole, lab diamonds have been universally accepted.
Now that lab diamonds are everywhere, the issue is the growth question of CVD Vs HPHT. Which lab growing method is best? What are the pros and cons of CVD Vs HPHT? We will discuss what both methods are and which might be best for you.
CVD Vs HPHT: What Are Lab Diamonds?
Lab diamonds are a not new trend in the jewelry industry. They have been around for over 50 years. But they did not become mainstream until recently. Lab Diamonds are man-made diamonds that are created in a laboratory setting in months rather than millions of years. Unlike natural diamonds, lab diamonds are created using advanced technology and scientific processes. The result is a diamond that is identical to a natural diamond in every way, except for its origin.
So how are lab diamonds made? Well, it all starts with a tiny diamond seed. This seed is placed in a chamber and exposed to extreme heat and pressure. Over time, the seed grows into a fully formed diamond. The process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the size and quality of the diamond.
CVD Lab Grown Diamonds
CVD lab grown diamonds are a fascinating innovation in the diamond industry. These diamonds are created in a lab using a process called Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). The process involves placing a small diamond seed in a chamber and then heating a mixture of gases until they break down and deposit onto the seed, creating a diamond.
One of the best things about CVD lab grown diamonds is that they are environmentally friendly. Unlike mined diamonds, which can be associated with environmental damage and human rights abuses, CVD diamonds are created in a controlled environment and have a much smaller carbon footprint. Plus, they are often less expensive than mined diamonds, making them a great choice for those on a budget.
CVD lab grown diamonds are a great option for those looking for a beautiful, high-quality diamond without breaking the bank or contributing to environmental harm. They are just as stunning as mined diamonds and offer a guilt-free way to enjoy the beauty of diamonds.
HPHT Lab Grown Diamonds
HPHT lab grown diamonds are a another fascinating innovation in the world of jewelry. These diamonds are created in a laboratory setting using high pressure and high temperature techniques. This process mimics the natural conditions that diamonds experience deep within the Earth’s mantle. The result is a diamond that is chemically and physically identical to a mined diamond.
There are metallic inclusions in HPHT lab grown diamonds can make the stones magnetic. This can be one way to identify if a diamond is lab grown. Natural diamonds are never magnetic. A 2012 study revealed that over half of the HPHT diamonds tested were found to be magnetic. While not a smoking gun, magnetism is a good test if trying to identify a lab grown diamond. However, CVD diamonds are not magnetic like HPHT diamonds can be.
One of the benefits of HPHT lab grown diamonds is that they are more environmentally friendly than mined diamonds. The mining process can be incredibly destructive to the environment, and can have negative impacts on local communities. By choosing a lab grown diamond, you can feel good about your purchase knowing that it has a smaller environmental footprint.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, HPHT lab grown diamonds are also more affordable than mined diamonds. This makes them a great option for those who want a high quality diamond without breaking the bank. Overall, HPHT lab grown diamonds are a fantastic innovation that offer many benefits to consumers.
CVD Vs HPHT – Which Is Better?
When it comes to lab grown diamonds, there are two main methods used to create them: CVD Vs HPHT. Both have their pros and cons.
CVD diamonds are created using a chemical vapor deposition process. They are known for their high clarity and purity. They are also more environmentally friendly than HPHT diamonds, as they require less energy to produce. However, they tend to be more expensive than HPHT diamonds and may not have the same color saturation.
The CVD growing method produces Type IIA diamonds. Type IIA diamonds are extremely rare in earth mined diamonds. This can help a lab determine if a diamond is lab grown or natural. Type IIA diamonds are the most chemically pure diamonds in the world. They do not have the nitrogen and/or boron impurities that HPHT diamonds that are exposed to.
On the other hand, HPHT diamonds are created using high pressure and high temperature. They tend to have a lower cost and can have a more natural color. However, they may have more inclusions and are not as environmentally friendly as CVD diamonds. However, it is possible to find high clarity, colorless stones made by HPHT.
We do not have any opinion on CVD Vs HPHT and which is better. A lab diamond is a lab diamond. We are of the mind that if you find a lab diamond you like, go for it no matter how it was grown. All things equal, we would go with the less expensive stone and not worry about CVD Vs HPHT.
CVD Vs HPHT – How To Tell The Difference
Lab-grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular, but it can be difficult to tell the difference between CVD Vs HPHT diamonds. And Unfortunately, you will not be able to definitively tell the difference between the two using your eye.
One way to possible identify how a stone was grown between the two is by looking at the color. CVD diamonds tend to have a grayish or brownish tint, while HPHT diamonds are usually colorless or near colorless. Another way to tell is by examining the inclusions. CVD diamonds often have more inclusions than HPHT diamonds, which can affect their clarity and overall appearance.
In our opinion, the best way to tell the difference between CVD Vs HPHT diamonds is by consulting with a reputable jeweler or gemologist. They have the expertise and tools to accurately identify the type of diamond and can provide valuable insight into its quality and value. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and do your research before making a purchase.
Overall, understanding the differences between CVD Vs HPHT diamonds can help you make an informed decision when buying a lab-grown diamond. By looking at the color and inclusions, and consulting with a professional, you can ensure that you are getting a high-quality diamond that meets your needs and budget.
Lab Diamonds – Where to Find Them
Lab diamonds are a great option for those who want to own a diamond without contributing to the environmental and ethical issues associated with traditional diamond mining. So, where can you shop for these gems?
First, consider online retailers. Online shops offer a wide variety of lab diamonds at competitive prices. They also provide detailed information about the diamonds’ characteristics, making it easier for you to make an informed decision. Plus, you can shop from the comfort of your own home! The majority of lab grown stones are certified by IGI laboratories. While maybe not as strict as GIA, they are still a reputable lab. This will make it easier to choose a stone without seeing it. Make sure and pick ones with Very Good, if not Excellent cuts. All things equal, cut can matter more than clarity.
An IGI certification will let you know the type of lab grown diamond you have in the “Additional Information” section.
Another option is to visit a local jeweler that specializes in lab diamonds. These jewelers can provide personalized service and help you find the perfect diamond for your needs. They can also answer any questions you may have about lab diamonds and provide advice on how to care for them. Local brick and mortar stores will have a smaller selection of stones and probably will not know if the stone is CVD Vs HPHT or not.
Shopping for lab diamonds can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you choose to shop online or in-person, make sure to do your research and choose a reputable retailer. With a little bit of effort, you can find the perfect lab diamond that fits both your style and values.
Give Us A Shot For CVD Vs HPHT Diamonds!
We do not keep many diamonds on hand. However, we do have access to the same diamonds as any other large diamond buyer in the world. We have numerous suppliers in India, where most stones are cut, that allow us to price our lab diamonds at lower prices than brick and mortar jewelry stores. By not carrying an inventory or having an expensive store with a high rent, we are able to keep prices down. We also do not have 4 employees sitting around all day that need to be paid. This also keeps overhead down.
That said, we make custom jewelry. And that is all we do. You can view our portfolio of custom engagement rings or custom pendants to look for ideas. Or you can contact us with your own idea. If you are looking for a piece of jewelry with a lab grown diamond in it, consider having it custom made. Especially if the piece is for someone who has an individual sense of style. Why buy mass produced jewelry when you can have something made just for you? We can create custom jewelry creations you will find nowhere else. And many times, for less than a comparable piece costs at the mall or chain jewelry stores.
Once you go custom…you never go back. To the mall!
