An ignition circuit for a detonator is disclosed. The circuit includes; an igniter having a first terminal and an opposing second terminal, a first diode electrically connected in series with the igniter at the first terminal, and a second diode electrically connected in series with the igniter at the second terminal. The first and second diodes each have an anode terminal and a cathode terminal, wherein like terminals of the first and second diodes are electrically connected to the igniter, thereby defining proximal terminals proximate the igniter and distal terminals on an opposing side of each respective diode. An energy source and a switch are electrically connected in series with each other, and are electrically connected across the distal terminals. Current flow through the igniter sufficient to ignite the igniter is prevented until an ignition voltage is applied to the distal terminals that is equal to or greater than the reverse breakdown voltage of the first diode or the second diode.