What is HPHT?
HPHT stands for High Pressure High Temperature, which is a diamond-growing process that simulates the high-pressure, high-temperature conditions found deep within the Earth's mantle where natural diamonds are formed. This process involves placing a small diamond seed into a chamber filled with carbon-rich gasses and then subjecting it to extreme pressure and temperature, typically around 1,500 degrees Celsius and 1.5 million pounds per square inch (psi) of pressure.
What the HPHT Process is like
During the process, the carbon atoms in the gas deposit onto the diamond seed and gradually crystallize into a larger diamond over several weeks or months. The resulting diamonds are typically Type IIa diamonds, which are among the rarest and most chemically pure diamonds in nature. The HPHT process can also be used to improve the color and clarity of diamonds that are already mined from the earth. This is done by subjecting the diamond to the same extreme pressure and temperature conditions in order to remove or modify any impurities that may be present.
HPHT diamonds are generally less expensive than natural diamonds and are often used as an alternative in the jewelry industry. However, they are still considered real diamonds and are graded using the same criteria as natural diamonds, including the 4Cs (carat weight, cut, color, and clarity).
It is important to note that not all HPHT diamonds are created equal and some may exhibit different properties and characteristics than others, so it is important to purchase them from reputable and knowledgeable sources.