Editor’s Note
This article explains the nature of synthetic diamonds, clarifying they are real diamonds created in a lab with identical properties to mined stones, but at a significantly lower cost.
A synthetic diamond is a precious stone created by humans in a laboratory, possessing the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds. It is not an imitation, like cubic zirconia, but a real diamond whose origin lies in a controlled process, not in geology. Its hardness, brilliance, and durability are identical, but its price can be up to 90% lower than that of a stone extracted from a mine.
The industry primarily uses two methods. The first is HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature), which subjects carbon to over 50,000 atmospheres and temperatures exceeding 1,500°C, recreating the conditions of the Earth’s mantle. The second is CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition), which adds layers of carbon onto a diamond seed in a vacuum chamber, allowing for the creation of large, high-purity gems in a matter of weeks.
Key advantages include price, traceability, and the ability to create colors or cuts uncommon in nature. As a disadvantage, experts warn that they are not a long-term investment and that their production consumes a significant amount of energy, which is only offset if renewable sources are used. Data from the consultancy Tenoris indicates that in the United States, they already represent more than half of the diamonds sold in engagement rings, driven by young consumers who value sustainability.
Due to their properties, synthetic diamonds are also used in laser optics, cutting tools, and microchip cooling. China leads global production, but Europe is beginning to position itself thanks to projects like the one in Trujillo, which explore their industrial potential beyond luxury.
