After decades of experimentation, scientists can finally grow
diamonds that outshine even the rarest De Beers rocks. Launch
the slideshow By Elizabeth Svoboda Posted 05.30.2006 at 2:00 am
4 Comments What: Perfect single-crystal diamonds of more than
two carats (the average engagement ring is less than a carat)
churned out in a day. Scientists create the gemstones using a
process called chemical vapor deposition (CVD), which grows
diamond crystals one carbon atom at a time. Five amazing, clean
technologies that will set us free, in this month's energy-
focused issue. Also: how to build a better bomb detector, the
robotic toys that are raising your children, a human catapult,
the world's smallest arcade, and much more.