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Both CVD and HPHT diamonds are:
100% real diamonds
Made of pure carbon crystal
Graded by the same standards (cut, color, clarity, carat)
Visually indistinguishable from natural diamonds to the naked eye
The difference is how they're created — and a few subtle traits that come with that process.
CVD stands for Chemical Vapor Deposition.
A small diamond "seed" is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas.
The gas is heated, causing carbon atoms to deposit onto the seed.
Layer by layer, the diamond grows over several weeks.
CVD diamonds tend to:
Have excellent clarity and minimal internal stress
Show slightly different crystal growth patterns under a microscope
HPHT stands for High Pressure High Temperature.
A diamond "seed" is exposed to intense pressure and heat (just like deep inside the earth).
Carbon melts around the seed and forms a diamond crystal.
HPHT diamonds tend to:
Start out more colorless naturally
Have slightly more internal strain or metallic inclusions (sometimes microscopic)
Be closer to natural diamond conditions overall
| Feature | CVD Diamonds | HPHT Diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Method | Gas chamber / layer-by-layer | Heat & pressure (Earth mimic) |
| Visible Difference | None to the naked eye | None to the naked eye |
| Typical Clarity | Higher | Slightly lower (sometimes) |
| Diamond Tester Results | Almost always test as "diamond" | Occasionally can confuse testers |
| Price | Usually slightly less expensive | Sometimes slightly higher |
Honestly?
Both CVD and HPHT diamonds can be absolutely gorgeous.
Here’s a quick way to think about it:
If you prioritize perfect clarity and love the idea of a cutting-edge science process, CVD might be your match.
If you want colorless from the start and a diamond grown under intense Earth-like conditions, HPHT might appeal to you.
At McKay Diamonds, we typically source CVD as they almost always pass traditional diamond testers and give customers peace of mind.
Q: Will I be able to tell a CVD diamond from an HPHT diamond?
A: No — not without extremely specialized equipment. Visually, they're identical to each other (and to natural diamonds).
Q: Does one type sparkle more?
A: No. Sparkle is all about cut quality, not growth method.
Q: Are CVD or HPHT diamonds "better" for engagement rings?
A: Both are excellent choices. We can help you find the right stone based on beauty, budget, and what matters most to you!
Q: Will a lab-grown diamond pass a diamond tester?
A:CVD diamonds almost always pass traditional diamond testers just like natural diamonds. HPHT diamonds can occasionally give confusing results on older or lower-end testers because of microscopic metallic inclusions.
However, certified labs use advanced testing methods to properly verify all lab diamonds — so when you buy from McKay Diamonds, your stone’s authenticity is guaranteed.