Scientists have discovered a new method to sculpt diamonds by controlling the reactions of carbon atoms in a furnace at a temperature similar to a lit match (500-700°C). The initial goal was to purify diamonds through air oxidation, but the researchers found that the uneven oxidation of carbon atoms could be used to shape diamonds into various forms. By controlling the time and temperature, they were able to create specific shapes, such as spheres, pyramids, and porous crystals, in large batches. This method can produce up to 500 million diamonds measuring 1-2 micrometers in diameter in less than a day. The unique shapes and properties of these diamonds could be used in security applications, such as verifying authenticity, and the researchers hope to refine the technique to create diamonds with specific optical and quantum properties.
Researchers craft intricate patterns onto diamond surfaces, micrometer by micrometer.
