1.   To catch up, Smith designed drill bits featuring synthetic diamonds with curved surfaces, rather than more conventional flat versions.

2.   Another factor that has worked against the development of synthetic diamond materials is a precipitous decline during the last five years in world prices for industrial diamonds.

3.   As pure entertainment, Connections would fail, but the sheer amazement of connecting a pencil to synthetic diamonds makes it a must-play.

4.   De Beers Consolidated and Centenary also own stakes in companies that make synthetic diamond and abrasive products.

5.   SI Diamond is developing displays based on synthetic diamond film.

6.   South African shares rose, led by De Beers Consolidated Mines Ltd. after the diamond producer detailed plans to sell some of its synthetic industrial diamond units.

7.   Synthetic diamond drill bits allow for faster drilling because they are stronger, sharper and more durable.

8.   Sibeka and South African-based De Beers already have equal investments in the synthetic diamond production and processing operations which make the superabrasive products sold by Debid.

9.   The former defence workers are today employed on projects ranging from manufacturing synthetic diamonds and fighting desertification to eliminating nuclear waste.