In the dynamic world of diamond jewellery, the increasing demand for lab grown diamonds is no secret. These prevalent diamonds can be grown in the laboratory through two different processes: Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT). In this comprehensive blog, we shall explore the fascinating world of CVD diamonds, from their creation process to their advantages over mined diamonds and unravelling why they are making waves in the industry.
What are CVD Diamonds?
Chemical Vapor Deposition or CVD diamonds are real diamonds grown in a laboratory by exactly replicating the diamond growing process as under the surface of the earth. Unlike mined diamonds, which are formed deep within the earth over millions of years, this category of lab grown diamonds are grown in controlled laboratory environments in a matter of weeks. They are identical to mined diamonds and have the same physical, thermal, optical and chemical properties as mined diamonds.
The process of creating CVD diamonds begins with a small diamond seed, which is placed in a plasma chamber filled with carbon-rich gases. Through a carefully controlled series of chemical reactions and high temperatures, carbon atoms accumulate on the diamond seed, gradually building up layer by layer until the formation of a fully grown diamond. As a result, they are nitrogen free and classified as Type IIA diamonds.
Benefits:
As compared to mined diamonds, CVD diamonds have several advantages as listed below:
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Pristine Quality: Owing to their creation process, CVD diamonds are typically of higher purity and clarity, with minimum impurities. Unlike HPHT diamonds that include metal impurities, CVDs are 100% carbon composed. The absence of nitrogen or metal impurities make them the purest diamonds, classified as Type IIA, offering a far better shine, lustre and sparkle. Only 2% of world’s mined diamonds ever have been nitrogen free and therefore an extreme rarity. Our Koh-I-Noor was a Type IIA as well, not only famous for the sheer size but also its flawless lustre.
All Limelight diamonds are Type IIA. They are purely made of carbon and do not contain any nitrogen impurities.
- Ethical as Compared to Mined Diamonds: CVD diamonds are more ethical because they are not mined but instead grown above in labs in exactly the same way. They end up saving huge tonnes of land & gallons of water that is destroyed in mining. Reports indicate that 1 carat of a lab grown diamond can save up to 250 tonnes of land and 109 gallons of water. Brands like Limelight Diamonds consciously make use of solar power and other such renewable resources to grow these diamonds in labs.
- Value for Money: The best advantage for these CVD diamonds is that they bear no heavy mining and extraction costs. This benefit gets passed on to the consumers in the form of significantly lower pricing, making luxury jewellery accessible to a wider customer base. The price may vary depending on factors such as size, colour, and clarity but are still pocket-friendly when compared to their mined counterparts. Hence, not only do lab grown diamonds grown through the CVD method offer better shine but also provide greater value for money by availing bigger rocks at better prices without compromising the quality. A win-win indeed!
- Certification: To ensure the quality and authenticity of CVD diamonds, brands like Limelight Diamonds provide diamond certification from world renowned diamond grading organisations like GIA, IGI and SGL. These certificates validate diamond's characteristics, including its carat weight, colour, clarity, and cut, instilling immense confidence in consumers for purchasing CVD diamond jewellery. All Limelight diamond jewellery is certified as real, offering lifetime exchange and buyback.
The Future Outlook for CVD Diamonds
- Rising Popularity of CVD Diamonds in the Jewellery Market:
In recent years, CVD diamonds have gained traction in the jewellery market, driven by growing consumer demand for ethically sourced diamonds. The unique and independent personality of lab grown diamonds is being well accepted by millennial consumers and is increasingly reflecting in the sales of lab grown diamond jewellery across India. This affordability factor has resonated with a growing segment of consumers seeking high-quality diamond jewellery without the premium associated with earth mined diamonds. This shift is reflected in the expanding presence of lab-grown diamond offerings from established jewellery brands and retailers, offering consumers a wider range of options with a better price point.
- Technological Advancements in CVD Diamond Production
As technology continues to advance, the production of CVD diamonds is becoming more efficient, cost-effective and scalable. Improvements in reactor designs and the deposition process have fastened production rates and led to the creation of larger diamond sizes. These advancements also play a significant role in enhancing the quality and purity of the diamonds produced, ensuring the customers can buy the best quality products at pocket-friendly prices without any compromise. This level of quality assurance has instilled confidence among consumers, further fuelling the adoption of lab-grown diamonds.
In Conclusion, the evolution of the diamond industry, propelled by the emergence of lab-grown diamonds, signifies a broader trend toward sustainability, affordability, and technological advancement. CVD diamonds are reshaping the way we think about luxury and diamonds with its unique personality. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, CVD diamonds are poised to become a staple in the world of fine jewellery, transforming into a dazzling choice for many. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, CVD Diamonds are paving the way for a more promising future for the diamond industry.
FAQs:
- Are CVD Diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, CVD diamonds are real diamonds with the same chemical composition and physical properties as mined diamonds. They have shape, size, colour and clarity grades, just like mined diamonds. In addition, the authenticity of lab grown CVD diamonds is also validated by & certified by all world-renowned diamond grading organisations like GIA, IGI and SGL.
- How do CVD Diamonds differ from lab grown diamonds?
CVD diamonds are a type of lab grown diamond produced using the chemical vapor deposition process, while lab grown diamonds encompass a broader category of diamonds grown in laboratory settings using various techniques.
- Can CVD Diamonds be distinguished from mined diamonds?
CVD diamonds and mined diamonds are completely identical in terms of physical as well as chemical properties. With advancements in technology and quality control, distinguishing between CVD diamonds and mined diamonds has become increasingly challenging. However, gemmological laboratories can provide certification and verification services to confirm a diamond's authenticity and characteristics.