THC Diamonds: What Are They, And How Are They Made?
Content reviewed by
Dr. Lewis Jassey
THC diamonds are small crystal structures made from the cannabis plant that undergo a crystallization process that converts THC acid (THCA) to THC.
They are revered amongst cannabis enthusiasts and are best reserved for those with experience in using cannabis concentrates, as they are incredibly potent.
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What Are THC Diamonds?
THC diamonds, also known as THC crystalline, are a potent and pure form of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with up to 99% pure THC. Also known as “weed diamonds,” THC diamonds are considered high-grade weed extract.
As THC refers to the psychoactive cannabinoid that has already been decarboxylated, you may also see THC diamonds referred to as “THCA crystals” or “THCA diamonds.”
THCA stands for “tetrahydrocannabinolic acid,” which is THC before it has been decarboxylated and is non-psychoactive. The process of extracting and purifying THCA is known as diamond mining, and heating the THCA crystals is what converts them into THC.
Diamonds vs. Shatter
Both THC diamonds and shatter are very potent and concentrated forms of cannabis that can produce an intense high when smoked or vaporized.
The main difference between diamonds and shatter is they are different forms of cannabis. Diamonds are small, crystalline structures that resemble small diamonds, and shatter is easily breakable and hard like glass.
How Are They Made?
THC Diamonds are made by extracting live resin from the plant material using solvents, liquids, and a cold extraction method and pressure that help extract THCA out of the plant.
This extract is then purified through a process called chromatography, which refers to a chemistry technique by which components of a mixture are separated using a chromatography machine.
The purified THCA extract is slowly heated until it begins to form crystal structures known as THC diamonds — the purest form of cannabis concentrate.
How to Smoke THC Diamonds
THC cannabis diamonds can be consumed in multiple ways, including smoking, vaping, dabbing, or ingesting edibles. Here is how to consume THC diamonds based on your chosen method of consumption:
- Vape: Break a small piece off of the diamond, place it into the vaporizer concentrate chamber, heat the vaporizer to a temperature between 315-450 degrees Fahrenheit, and wait for the diamond to melt, then slowly inhale and exhale.
- Smoke: A THC diamond can be smoked by breaking up pieces of the diamond and adding them to dried cannabis flower.
- Dab: Place your THC diamond in a dab rig and then heat the nail or banger using a torch. Take a small portion of the THC diamond using a dabber tool. Inhale the smoke slowly through the dab rig’s mouth.
- Edible: THC diamonds can be melted to make a cannabis-infused oil or butter, which can be used as an ingredient in an edible recipe.
Benefits of THC Diamonds
THC diamonds have many benefits, including the benefits that come from THC itself. Research shows that THC can help manage pain, anxiety, trouble sleeping, and lack of appetite. Additionally, THC diamonds have the added benefit of being incredibly potent, versatile, and flavorful:
- Potency: THC diamonds are extremely potent and deliver a high concentration of THC, which can produce an intense and long-lasting high effect.
- Versatility: They can be used in multiple ways, including dabbing, vaping, smoking, and ingesting.
- Flavor: THC diamonds are created using high-quality cannabis strains, which provide increased flavor and aromatics.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
THC diamonds, like most cannabis products, carry potential risks and side effects. Here are some of the most common risks and side effects associated with this crystalline form of THC:
- Respiratory issues: Some research shows that cannabis smoke or vapor may damage your lungs and may deposit more chemicals within the lungs than inhaled tobacco.
- Overdose: THC diamonds offer a high potency of cannabis that can be easy to overconsume, leading to side effects like dizziness and nausea and psychoactive effects such as paranoia. Fortunately, it is extremely improbable to have a deadly overdose on cannabis alone, but it is still possible to use too much THC.
- Impaired cognition: THC diamonds deliver high doses of THC, which may impair cognitive function and memory.
The Bottom Line
While THC diamonds have the potential benefits of a high-concentrate and pure form of THC, they also have potential risks and side effects. Using THC diamonds responsibly and in moderation is important, especially if you’re new to using cannabis. Start low and go slow when trying out this potent concentrate.
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