How chemical vapor deposition works
CVD stands for chemical vapor deposition. A thin slice of diamond, called a seed, is placed in a sealed chamber. The chamber is filled with a carbon-rich gas, usually methane mixed with hydrogen, and heated with microwave energy until the gas becomes a plasma.
Carbon atoms separate from the gas and settle on the seed, building new diamond layer by layer. Growth takes several weeks. The rough crystal is then cut and polished by the same methods used for mined diamonds.
CVD compared with HPHT
The two main lab-grown methods are CVD and HPHT (high pressure, high temperature). HPHT imitates the squeeze and heat of the earth's mantle. CVD works at much lower pressure and builds the crystal from gas.
Both methods produce real diamonds. CVD stones can be grown large and with high clarity, which is why many of the colorless stones sold today are CVD.
Are CVD diamonds real?
Yes. Gemological laboratories classify them as diamonds and describe them as laboratory-grown on the report. They are identified by instruments, not by the eye. Our stones are sold with an independent grading report from IGI or GIA.
What to check before you buy
Ask for the grading report and confirm that the stock ID matches the stone you are buying.
- The report states laboratory-grown and CVD growth.
- Carat, color, clarity and cut grades match the listing.
- Fluorescence and measurements are disclosed.
- The price is quoted in USD with no hidden fees.