Lab-Created Pink Diamond

Diamonds formed in labs are becoming a viable alternative to jewelers and consumers since naturally-occurring diamonds are becoming much harder to find. Lab-created pink diamonds are a highly sought-after option for adornments and for other uses in jewelry. The diamonds possess similar properties to natural variants and can be just as good when used correctly.

History of Lab-Created Pink Diamonds

Lab-created diamonds became popular in the 1950s after General Electric (GE) produced the first set of synthetic diamonds. Several advances in technology since that decade has seen improvements in the creation of lab-created diamonds. Creators of these diamonds can now add colors like pink to clear stones.

How are Lab-Created Pink Diamonds Made?

Lab-created pink diamonds can form through two popular methods:

Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) Method
The process begins with a diamond seed placed in a CO2-filled chamber. Common carbon-rich gases are preferred like methane to exclusive carbon options. The gas rich in carbon ionizes to a plasma with the aid of lasers or microwaving technology. Using lasers or microwaves causes carbon atoms to precipitate by layers onto the diamond seed. Irradiation adds the pink color during this process at a defined temperature.

High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) Method
The HPHT method duplicates natural formation of diamonds, but in monitored conditions within a laboratory.
HPHT involves placing a diamond seed within a carbon-rich enclosure and under extreme temperature and pressure (temperatures usually above 1,500°C and pressure over 1.4m lbs per sq. in.). Diamond crystals form under this condition by bonding carbon atoms to the introduced seed.

Uses of Lab-Created Pink Diamonds

Lab-created pink diamonds are useful as decorative pieces on jewelry and for general decorations.

Chemical Properties of Lab-Created Pink Diamonds

• Birefringence: none
• Clarity: Similar to natural diamonds
• Color: Vivid pink achieved through treatment
• Crystal System: cubic
• Dispersion: 0.044
• Fluorescence: usually inert
• Fracture: conchoidal
• Hardness (Mohs): 10
• Heat Sensitivity: avoid extreme heat exposure
• Luster: adamantine
• Pleochroism: none
• Refractive Index (RI): 2.42
• Shape/Cut: Various
• Specific Gravity: 3.52
• Transparency: transparent to translucent

Maintenance Tips for Lab-Created Pink Diamonds

Cleaning – use a soft brush and mild soapy water to clean off dirt from your lab-created pink diamonds. Avoid using harsh chemical solutions to prevent the diamonds from color fading.
Handling – do not expose diamonds made in labs to high temperatures or sudden temperature changes.
Storage – diamonds should be stored in a pouch with cushions and compartments to avoid scratches.
Avoiding chemicals – do not expose your diamond to cosmetics, harsh chemicals, perfumes, and any other substances that could affect its appearance.
Consult your jeweler for maintenance tips and other vital details related to lab-created pink diamonds. Advice and recommendations from a qualified, experienced jeweler can help you get the best lab-created pink diamonds for your needs.