When you look at a diamond, you might wonder if it's natural or lab-created.
The truth is, with the naked eye, it's impossible to tell the difference between a CVD diamond and a natural diamond.
Both types of diamonds share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties.
To distinguish between them, you need specialized equipment and expert knowledge.
4 Key Differences Between CVD Diamonds and Natural Diamonds
1. Creation Processes
CVD Diamonds: These diamonds are made using the Chemical Vapor Deposition method.
A small diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with heated hydrogen and carbon-containing gases.
As the gas molecules break down, layers of crystallized carbon form around the seed, growing a larger diamond.
Some CVD diamonds may undergo additional pressure and heat treatment after formation.
Natural Diamonds: These diamonds form naturally deep within the Earth's mantle under high pressure and temperature conditions over thousands of years.
They are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions.
2. Microscopic Characteristics
Strain Patterns: Under magnification, CVD diamonds may exhibit different strain patterns compared to natural diamonds.
This difference requires specialist gemological knowledge to identify.
Trace Elements: Specialized equipment can detect minute trace elements like silicone, which might be present in CVD diamonds due to their creation process.
This analysis is typically performed by laboratories like GIA.
3. Certification
When purchasing a CVD diamond, it's crucial to ensure it comes with a certification from reputable organizations like GIA or IGI.
These certificates will indicate whether the diamond is natural or lab-created (via CVD or HPHT) and whether it has undergone any post-growth treatments.
Diamonds that have required post-growth treatments should generally be avoided as they may not maintain their appearance over time.
4. Scientific Analysis
In summary, while CVD and natural diamonds are visually identical, their origins and certain microscopic features differ.
These differences can only be accurately assessed through specialized scientific analysis.
Continue exploring, consult our experts
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