MAKING A SYNTHETIC DIAMOND

The HPHT method replicates the natural diamond-making process to create gems in a laboratory

1 GROWTH CELL

This contains a tiny diamond seed surrounded by molten metal with carbon atoms dissolved in it.

2 CARBIDE ANVIL

A pair of heavy-duty pistons squeeze down onto the growth cell to produce the required high pressure.

3 CARBIDE RING

This solid ring helps create the necessary pressure for the carbon atoms to deposit onto the diamond seed.

4 PRESSURE-TRANSMITTING MEDIUM

This ensures that the forces created by the pistons and ring are transmitted uniformly to the growth cell.

5 GRAPHITE HEATER

This produces the other factor besides pressure that’s needed for diamond growth: a high temperature.