History

Swedish scientists produced the first synthetic diamond at the Allmanna Svenska Elektriska Aktiebolaget (ASEA) Laboratory in 1953. American scientists at General Electric (GE) followed with their own breakthrough in 1955.

Process

Making a synthetic diamond involves applying 55,000 atmospheres of pressure at 1,400 degrees Centigrade to graphite inside a growth capsule. Some molten iron or cobalt is added to the mix to help speed the reaction. Small diamonds act as "seeds" on which the synthetic diamonds grow.

Features

It takes several days for the machine to produce a rough diamond. Lab-made diamonds can range from a quarter carat to 2.5 carats in size. They can be clear or colored. Nitrogen is added in the growth process to produce yellow synthetic diamonds.

Identification

Mined and synthetic diamonds look identical to the naked eye or microscope. The Federal Trade Commission requires manufacturers to laser-inscribe their diamonds with a mark that jewelers can see with a "loupe" (magnification device).

Benefits

Synthetic diamonds tend to have fewer flaws. They also cost about 15 percent less than mined diamonds. Synthetic diamonds are used as gemstones and in science and industry.

Producers

GE and De Beers are among the leading producers of synthetic diamonds. According to the American Museum of Natural History, manufacturers create about 80 tons of synthetic diamonds each year.

Source:

Growing Diamonds

Synthetic Diamonds Still a Rough Cut

Resource:

Dollar Wise Manmade Diamonds