HPHT Lab-Grown Diamonds
The HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) process is one of the fascinating methods for producing lab-grown diamonds. This technology mimics the natural conditions under which diamonds form deep within the Earth. Here, you will learn how the HPHT process works and the impressive results it yields. Currently, the HPHT process is favored for creating diamonds of smaller carat sizes, while the CVD process is often used to produce larger lab-grown diamonds.
How does the HPHT Process work?
Combination of Pressure and Heat: The HPHT process generates extreme pressure and temperature conditions similar to those in the Earth's mantle. A small diamond seed is placed in a special chamber.
Growth Process: The chamber is heated to a pressure of about 5 to 6 Gigapascals ( 5 GPa = 50.000 bar) and temperatures up to 1.500 Degrees Celsius. Under these conditions, the carbon surrounding the chamber begins to crystallize and attach to the seed.
Formation of a Diamond: After several weeks, the growth process is complete, and a new diamond has formed. This diamond is then carefully cooled and removed from the chamber.
HPHT diamonds, like CVD diamonds, are the perfect choice for anyone who values sustainability and quality. They combine the fascinating beauty and hardness of natural diamonds with the benefits of controlled and eco-friendly production. Whether as a sparkling piece of jewelry or a symbol of love, HPHT and CVD diamonds offer a bright future for the world of jewelry.
Are HPHT Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Yes. HPHT diamonds are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds. While natural diamonds form over millions of years under extreme pressure and heat deep within the earth, HPHT diamonds are grown in a lab in a matter of weeks under comparable conditions.
Here is a comprehensive comparison of lab-grown diamonds, natural diamonds, and diamond simulants like zirconia and moissanite.
Advantages of HPHT Diamonds
Sustainability: Lab-grown diamonds require significantly less water and energy, cause minimal land disruption, generate less toxic waste, and have a lower human impact from incidents or disasters compared to natural diamonds. Their creation also results in reduced carbon emissions in conjunction with renewable energy.
Ethics: HPHT diamonds chosen by RYIA are created in laboratory environments designed to meet ethical labor standards. Choosing RYIA means avoiding the risks associated with “conflict diamonds” and supporting jewelry made without exploitative practices or unsafe working conditions.
Click here to read more about our commitment to ethical and sustainable jewelry.
Costs: As lab-grown diamond technology has matured, HPHT diamonds not only offer a more affordable alternative—requiring fewer resources and less time to produce—but also break free from the artificial scarcity imposed by the traditional diamond industry. This allows buyers to access larger and clearer diamonds at a lower price.