(ORDO NEWS) — Lab-grown diamonds have the same carbon structure as natural diamonds. But if the latter are “produced” for millions of years, then their laboratory counterpart is created in just a few days.
Typically, diamonds are grown using the high temperature high pressure (HPHT) method. American scientists from the General Electric Corporation developed the HPHT method back in 1954, which made it possible in the laboratory to simulate the growth of a diamond that occurs deep under the Earth‘s surface.
HPHT is the easiest and most economical process for growing large diamonds.
How is it done? Here is the instruction for you:
1- Sow the seeds
The HPHT process starts with a tiny piece of diamond known as a “seed crystal” (a proper “shard” that could be a piece of calcium sulfate, for example).
It is placed in a cell inside the press along with a metal catalyst such as nickel or iron. On top is a block of pure carbon such as graphite.
2- Apply pressure
The press heats the cell up to 1600 degrees Celsius. Then he starts using metal anvils to apply pressure.
The pressure and temperature must be high enough to melt the metal catalyst.
3- Give it time
The molten metal transfers carbon atoms from the graphite to the seed crystal. Carbon atoms slowly accumulate around the crystal, forming polyhedral structures.
The growth rate must be controlled to reduce the risk of damage to the structure.
4- Cut and polish
After cooling, the diamond is ready to be cut and turned into a diamond. Received diamonds experts classify by cut, color, weight and clarity.
By the way, metal catalysts are able to give diamonds a specific shade of color.
And, of course, I would like to note that the exorbitant cost of diamonds is a scam on an earthly scale. Their price is so high for the reason that there is a monopoly on their production and sale.
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