Lab grown diamonds are created from the microscopic carbon seeds of pre-existing diamonds. Extreme pressure and heat or CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) mimics the natural method of diamond formation. Some lab diamonds grown through deposition may also undergo pressure and heat treatment (HPHT). Lab grown fancy coloured diamonds are formed when small amounts of specific trace elements are present during the growth phase of the diamond, just like in nature. In both white and fancy coloured lab diamonds, the exact composition of trace elements may differ from their natural diamond counterparts. Lab diamonds can only be distinguished from natural diamonds using specialized equipment that can detect the minor differences in trace elements and crystal growth.