Diopside

Diopside (hardness between 5.5 and 6.5) is an important rock-forming mineral from the group of monoclinic pyroxenes. Its color varies based on the presence of the chemical elements magnesium or calcium and can therefore be found from a colorless variety to a beautiful deep green, then in the color of milky white, gray and in the case of violane the color is even purple. It has a glassy luster, transparency: translucent to opaque, scratch is white. Its name, originating from the Greek, is composed of two words dis and òpsè, which literally means two faces. Diopside was first discovered and described around 1800.

Diopside – a mineral from the group of pyroxenes
Diopside is a calcium and magnesium silicate with the chemical formula CaMgSi₂O₆. It belongs to the group of pyroxenes and is known for its diverse color, most often in shades of green, brown or white.

Appearance and properties of diopside
Diopside crystallizes in the clinker system and often forms prismatic crystals. The hardness ranges between 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale. Some varieties of diopside, such as chrome diopside, stand out with an intense emerald green color.

Diopside deposits
Significant deposits of diopside are found in Russia (Siberia – famous chrome diopside), Canada, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Italy. Samples are also found in metamorphic rocks around the world.

History and uses of diopside
Diopside was described at the beginning of the 19th century. It is valued mainly among mineral collectors. Some clear and colorful varieties are also used in jewelry as gemstones.

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