Nadia & Co. · The jewelry journal
How are lab-grown diamonds made?
From a seed to a sparkle.
Two main processes grow diamond crystals in controlled conditions. Follow the journey before the cutting and polishing begin.
Explore below
The details make the difference
Two ways to grow a diamond.
Select a method, then tap each step to follow the process.
Chemical vapor deposition
Step 01
A diamond seed
A thin diamond seed is placed in a low-pressure chamber.
Step 02
Carbon from gas
Energy activates a carbon-containing gas. Carbon deposits on the seed, building diamond crystal in layers.
Step 03
A growing crystal
Growth continues under controlled conditions. Some CVD diamonds receive post-growth treatment before cutting and polishing.
High pressure, high temperature
Step 01
Seed, carbon and catalyst
A diamond seed is placed with carbon and a metal catalyst in a growth cell.
Step 02
Heat and pressure
High heat and pressure allow carbon to dissolve and crystallize onto the seed.
Step 03
From crystal to gem
The grown crystal is evaluated, planned, cut and polished into a gemstone.
Simplified process illustrations. Conditions and growth times vary by producer and desired crystal size.
Is one growth method always better?
The method alone does not determine beauty or overall quality. Evaluate the finished diamond’s appearance and report, including any disclosed treatments.
Sources & further reading
Educational references used in these guides. Illustrations are simplified and do not grade or authenticate a gemstone.