Did you know there are three kinds of Diamonds? Yes, each one authentic Diamond!
- Mined Diamond
- CVD Diamond
- HPHT Diamond
The only difference between each is the growth process. Other than that, they are 100% identical to each other.
OgilvieGems only deal in 100% authentic diamonds.
Diamonds are one of the most precious and sought-after gemstones in the world. They are valued for their brilliance, durability, and rarity. Traditionally, diamonds were only available as mined diamonds, but today, technological advancements have made it possible to produce lab-grown diamonds, which are also known as HPHT and CVD diamonds. At OgilvieGems, we deal only in 100% authentic diamonds, whether HPHT, CVD, or mined.
What Are HPHT Diamonds?
HPHT stands for high pressure, high temperature. This technique is used to create synthetic diamonds in a controlled environment. HPHT diamonds are grown from natural diamond seeds and undergo high-pressure, high-temperature treatment to enhance their colour. The result is a beautiful, authentic diamond that is identical in every way to a mined diamond.
HPHT diamonds are graded based on the 4Cs of diamond quality – cut, colour, carat, and clarity. They are certified by gemmologists, and consumers receive a diamond grading report that verifies their authenticity and value. The durability of HPHT diamonds is also similar to that of mined diamonds.
What Are CVD Diamonds?
CVD stands for chemical vapour deposition. This process involves using a diamond seed crystal in a vacuum chamber and pumping natural gas, such as methane, into the chamber. The natural gas breaks down into carbon atoms that accumulate on the crystal and form a diamond. CVD diamonds are also grown from natural diamond seeds, and they have the exact same crystal structure, chemical composition, optical properties, and physical properties as a mined diamond.
The process of creating a CVD diamond also involves high temperatures and pressures within the chamber, which removes any coloration and makes the diamond colourless. Just like HPHT diamonds, CVD diamonds are graded based on the 4Cs of diamond quality and certified by gemmologists.
How Are HPHT and CVD Diamonds Different from Simulants?
It’s essential to note that HPHT and CVD diamonds are not the same as diamond simulants like cubic zirconia (CZ) or a diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating on a CZ. Simulants are entirely different materials, and they do not have the same physical, chemical, or optical properties as diamonds.
CZs, for instance, contain zero carbon and are much weaker than diamonds. They have different light performance and patterning. Any jeweller can quickly tell the difference between a diamond and an inferior diamond simulant such as CZ. HPHT and CVD diamonds, on the other hand, are made entirely of carbon, just like mined diamonds.
What Are the Advantages of HPHT and CVD Diamonds?
One of the most significant advantages of HPHT and CVD diamonds is that they are less expensive than mined diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are not as rare as mined diamonds, and the cost of producing them is lower. As a result, they are more affordable, making them a popular choice among consumers who want to save money without sacrificing quality.
Another advantage of HPHT and CVD diamonds is that they are environmentally friendly. The process of mining diamonds can be harmful to the environment, and it’s often associated with human rights issues. Lab-grown diamonds, however, are produced in a controlled environment, which eliminates the negative impact of mining on the environment.
Are HPHT and CVD Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Yes, HPHT and CVD diamonds are real diamonds. They are grown from natural diamond seeds and have the exact same crystal structure, chemical composition, optical properties, and physical properties as mined diamonds. HPHT and CVD diamonds are not fake diamonds or diamond simulants.
Are HPHT and CVD Diamonds of Lower Quality Than Mined Diamonds?
No, mined diamonds are just diamonds that have been extracted from the earth. They are created over a period of millions of years under high pressure and high temperature deep within the earth’s mantle. These diamonds are formed under extreme conditions, where carbon is subjected to high pressure and temperatures of around 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit.
HPHT Diamonds:
HPHT diamonds are created by subjecting a small diamond seed (natural diamond seed) crystal to high pressure and high temperature in a controlled environment. This process is designed to replicate the natural conditions that produce mined diamonds, resulting in a diamond with the same chemical and physical properties as a mined diamond.
The HPHT process can also be used to treat natural diamonds, improving their colour and clarity. This process involves exposing the diamond to high pressure and high temperature to remove any impurities and enhance its natural beauty.
HPHT diamonds are often less expensive than mined diamonds, making them a popular choice for those looking for an affordable alternative to traditional diamonds. They are also available in a wide range of colours, including white, yellow, and pink.
CVD Diamonds:
CVD diamonds are created using a process called chemical vapour deposition. This process involves placing a small diamond seed (natural diamond seed) crystal in a vacuum chamber and exposing it to a gas that contains carbon. The carbon atoms attach themselves to the crystal, forming a diamond.
CVD diamonds are often less expensive than mined diamonds and are available in a wide range of colours. They are also more environmentally friendly, as they are grown in a lab rather than being mined from the earth.
CVD diamonds are a popular choice for those who are looking for an affordable alternative to traditional diamonds. They are also often used in industrial applications, such as cutting tools and electronics.
How to Choose the Right Diamond?
When choosing a diamond, there are several factors to consider. The most important factors are the 4Cs – cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. We like to add two more C’s
Cut: The cut of a diamond refers to its proportions and the way it reflects light. A well-cut diamond will have excellent sparkle and brilliance.
Colour: The colour of a diamond is graded on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The less colour a diamond has, the more valuable it is.
Clarity: The clarity of a diamond refers to the presence of inclusions and blemishes. Diamonds with fewer inclusions are more valuable.
Carat Weight: The carat weight of a diamond refers to its size. The larger the diamond, the more valuable it is.
Cost: Is the cost going to give her the desire of her heart. She deserves to wear on her hand, what she desires for the rest of her life
Confidence: Do you have the confidence in the information you have been presented with to make the best decision you ultimately can.
When choosing a diamond, it is important to consider all of these factors and choose the diamond that is right for you. Whether you choose a mined diamond, an HPHT diamond, or a CVD diamond, you can be sure that you are getting a beautiful and valuable gemstone that will last a lifetime.
Why we prefer CVD or HPHT diamonds over mined diamonds.
Eco-friendly: One of the biggest reasons to choose CVD or HPHT diamonds is their eco-friendliness. The mining process for natural diamonds is often harmful to the environment, involving land destruction, deforestation, and water pollution. In contrast, CVD and HPHT diamonds are produced in controlled laboratory settings, using fewer resources and producing less waste. This makes them an excellent choice for those who are environmentally conscious.
Ethical: Mined diamonds are often associated with unethical practices, such as the exploitation of workers in diamond mines and conflicts known as “blood diamonds.” On the other hand, CVD and HPHT diamonds are produced in a controlled environment, ensuring ethical and fair labour practices. This makes them an ethical choice for those who want to support sustainable and ethical diamond production.
Cost-effective: CVD and HPHT diamonds are often more cost-effective than mined diamonds, making them a great choice for those who want a high-quality diamond without breaking the bank. They are typically less expensive because they don’t require the expensive and often dangerous mining process.
Quality: CVD and HPHT diamonds are known for their high quality and purity. The controlled laboratory environment allows for consistent quality and purity, resulting in diamonds with exceptional colour, clarity, and brilliance. This makes them an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality diamond that looks and performs like a mined diamond.
Customization: CVD and HPHT diamonds can be customized to suit specific needs, such as colour and clarity. This makes them an excellent choice for those who want a diamond with specific properties that are difficult or impossible to find in a mined diamond.
Desired Design: Ultimately she has to wear this for the rest of her life. Cosmopolitan did a study that showed that 80% of woman are not happy with their engagement ring. The biggest factor is that their expectation was unmet, being bombarded with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and so much more, its such an emotional bummer they have to live with when the expectation is unmet.
Overall, there are many reasons to choose CVD or HPHT diamonds over mined diamonds, including their eco-friendliness, ethical production, cost-effectiveness, high quality, and customization options.