LAB GROWN DIAMONDS


CVD Diamonds

CVD diamonds are lab-made diamonds, identical to natural diamonds and 100% authentic. Learn how they are made, if and how they differ from natural diamonds, and whether a CVD diamond is right for you.


What are CVD diamonds?

CVD stands for Chemical Vapor Deposition and is the commonly used name for lab-grown diamonds through a chemical vapor deposition process.

In this method, a diamond seed is placed in a sealed chamber with carbon-rich gases at a temperature of around 800 degrees Celsius. Under these conditions, gases begin to "stick" to the seed, forming a layer-by-layer diamond.

The technology behind creating diamonds in the lab has come a long way in recent years, allowing companies to develop better quality diamonds faster, more cost-effectively, and of course, more environmentally friendly.


Properties of a CVD diamond

CVD diamonds have the exact same properties as natural diamonds, they have the same internal structure and the exact same chemical, physical and optical properties. Just like natural diamonds, the properties of CVD diamond include great strength, reaching 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.

CVD diamonds are graded by cut, color, clarity and carat weight. Choose diamonds between clarity grades VS1 and VVS1 and color grades D to F, for a premium quality diamond with excellent value for money. When you buy a CVD diamond, its origin will be noted on the GIA or IGI certification.

The reality is that even top gemologists cannot tell a CVD diamond from a natural diamond. It is impossible to tell them apart without specialized equipment.

 

Speed of creation of a CVD diamond

The speed of growth of a CVD diamond depends on the size of the stone and the efficiency of the technologies used. Top CVD diamond producers can create 1ct diamonds in about a month.

 

How do you identify a CVD diamond?

It is not possible to identify a CVD diamond from a natural diamond without specialized laboratory equipment and gemological knowledge because they are identical. Even top gemologists could struggle to tell the difference. The knowledge and equipment required is highly specialized and you will be required to submit your diamond to a laboratory such as GIA.

When buying a CVD diamond, make sure it is GIA or IGI certified. The accompanying certificate will describe whether the diamonds are natural or lab created through CVD.

 

Why Choose a Lab Diamond?

Lab diamonds are becoming an increasingly popular choice among buyers. Some of the benefits of CVD diamond jewelry include ethical sourcing, sustainability, cheaper prices, and premium quality for high-end diamonds. Lab diamonds are a growing trend for environmental reasons as well. Evidence shows that the total environmental footprint of diamonds created in nature is far greater than that of "lab" diamonds.

 

Choosing a CVD diamond versus a natural diamond is an entirely personal decision. To put the debate in simple terms, you are choosing between a less expensive, guaranteed ethical and ecologically sustainable option. Want to compare CVD and natural diamonds in person? - That's why we're here. Visit our store to help you make your decision. We can show you a range of the best lab vs. natural diamonds for your preferences and budget.