India Sends First Lab Grown Diamond Into Space on Vikram 1 Mission

India’s private space sector has marked a unique achievement by sending the country’s first lab grown diamond into space aboard the Vikram 1 orbital rocket. The historic payload was part of Skyroot Aerospace’s Mission Agaman, highlighting the growing capabilities of India’s commercial space industry.

The specially designed diamond display was developed by Surat based Nityas Gems and Jewellery. According to the company’s Chief Executive Officer Rajanikant Chandchad, the project represents a remarkable blend of advanced engineering and fine craftsmanship. A team of 20 experts spent nearly six months designing and preparing the space ready exhibit.

The space payload features 32 pear cut lab grown diamonds with a combined weight of 16.95 carats. Arranged in the shape of a lotus, the collection is estimated to be worth around Rs 10 lakh. The elegant design was created not only for visual appeal but also to demonstrate the durability of lab grown diamonds under challenging conditions.

To ensure the diamonds remained secure throughout the mission, they were mounted on an aerospace grade aluminium plate capable of withstanding intense rocket vibrations and the harsh environment of space. Engineers carefully tested the structure to meet the demanding requirements of orbital travel.

Mission officials said the diamonds are expected to reflect sunlight brilliantly while in space, creating a spectacular visual effect. The mission is also believed to be the first private space launch in India to carry gemstones as a special display payload, adding a distinctive chapter to the country’s rapidly advancing space journey.