The crystal structure, microstructure, and dense modification mechanisms of carbon were compared using transmission electron microscopy and x-ray and electron diffraction. Temperature and pressure effects resulting from synthesis were investigated. Diamond powders were obtained using high-temperature dynamic synthesis and shock compression of highly crystalline graphite under variable loads. Crystal-phase transformations and grain reorientations were evaluated. The structures were independent of the original carbon material. By changing the conditions of dynamic synthesis it was possible to control parameters such as phase composition and crystal structure.