A method for consolidating finely divided diamond particles to produce a substantially fully dense article having improved resistance to wear and cracking. Diamond particles are heated to an elevated temperature for compacting to form the fully dense article. The article is then held at an elevated temperature and time sufficient to rearrange and substantially reduce the dislocations in the article resulting during compacting to achieve a substantially strain-free state in the article. The article is then cooled to room temperature after which it may be given an improved leaching treatment to achieve superior thermal stability.