How are Lab Grown Diamonds Processed?

The polishing of a diamond is a highly skilled and intricate process that involves several steps to turn a rough diamond into a polished gemstone. Here is an overview of the polishing process.

CVD Processing

I. Planning and Marking

The first step in the polishing process is to examine the rough diamond and determine the best way to cut it for maximum value and beauty. The diamond is then marked with a special pencil to indicate where the cuts will be made.

II. Cleaving or Sawing

If the diamond is too large to be polished as a single stone, it may be cleaved or sawed into smaller pieces. This is done using a special diamond-tipped tool that can make precise cuts without damaging the diamond.

III. Bruting

Once the diamond has been shaped, it is then rounded and smoothed using a process called bruting. This involves grinding the edges of the diamond against a spinning disc until they are smooth and symmetrical.

IV. Blocking

The diamond is then placed onto a dop stick, which is a special tool used to hold the diamond in place during the polishing process. The diamond is attached to the dop stick using a special wax.

V. Faceting

The diamond is then cut and polished into its final shape and faceted using a series of diamond-tipped tools. Each facet must be precisely cut and polished to the correct angle and size to maximize the diamond's brilliance and fire.

VI. Polishing

Once all the facets have been cut, the diamond is then polished using a series of polishing wheels and a special polishing compound. This removes any scratches or blemishes from the diamond's surface and gives it a final high shine.

VII. Inspection

The polished diamond is then carefully inspected for any flaws or imperfections. If any are found, the diamond may need to be re-polished or re-cut to remove them.

VIII. Certification

Finally, the diamond is graded and certified by a gemological laboratory to determine its quality and value. This includes a grading of the diamond's 4Cs - carat weight, clarity, colour, and cut.