Shaped synthetic articles are fabricated by vapor deposition of synthetic diamond on releasable molds. A process is also provided for forming a shaped synthetic diamond article by coating a mold with an etchable layer and then depositing synthetic diamond on the etchable layer. The etchable layer is thereafter removed in an etchant bath, releasing the diamond article from the mold. The synthetic diamond articles are useful as high-temperature, corrosion resistant vessels and as wear surfaces.