Gemstone :
Chrome Diopside

Birthstone Month :
Diopside is associated with the birthstone month of March.

Zodiac :
Diopside is associated with the zodiac sign of Pisces.

Chemical Symbol :
CaMg(Si2O6)

Chemical Make-up :
Chrome Diopside is a Calcium Magnesium Silicate and owes its green coloration to traces of Chromium.

History & Lore :
The name Diopside is derived from the Greek word 'di' meaning two, and 'opsis', meaning vision.

Chrome Diopside's popularity rose in 1988 when material surfaced in Europe. Dealers raved about its green color that resembled that of Tsavorite and Chrome Tourmaline at a fraction of the cost. Since then, Chrome Diopside has been granted class one export status among Russia's mineral resources, a ranking that includes Diamond, Emerald, and Alexandrite.

Diopside is believed to be a creative stone, increasing creative visualization and helping to manifest desired goals. It has also been said that it can improve the wearer's intellect, particularly with regards to mathematical and analytical abilities. In addition to this, Diopside is believed to alleviate aggression and stubbornness, and is said to be related to love, commitment, and the inner heart.

Physically, Diopside is believed to heal the heart, lungs, and the circulatory system. It is also believed to aid with psychological disorders and weaknesses.

Availability :
This rare Diopside variety is mostly available in small sizes, with larger sized specimens being much too dark for gem use. Chrome Diopsode's rarity has not significantly affected prices which remain modest.

Sources :
Chrome Diopside is mined in a remote area in Eastern Siberia known as Inagli, which is in the state of Sakha.

Evaluation :
Diopside is rated at 5.5 on Moh's Scale of Hardness and though it is suitable for jewelry purposes, care should be taken with this stone for it is relatively soft and brittle. It is recommended that Chrome Diopside is used for earrings or a pendant rather than a ring that will receive a lot of wear.

Chrome Diopside makes an excellent substitute for other green gemstones, mainly Emerald and Tsavorite, as it exhibits a similar color at a fraction of the cost. In fact, Chrome Diopside is the most affordable of all the rich green colored gemstones. Chrome Diopside is mainly available in smaller Carat sizes because the color of the stone steadily darkens as the sizes increase.

The main factor to consider when purchasing Chrome Diopside is the color, with medium dark green stones being at the pinnacle of the value spectrum. The quality of the cut will also significantly enhance the value considerably by adding brilliance and scintillation. Specimens over 2 carats displaying a rich green color are incredibly rare and will naturally demand high premiums.

Common Cuts :
A faceted cut with shallow angles is needed to improve both the brilliance and the color of the stone, particularly in larger sizes where the color can appear too dark. Chrome Diopside is also occasionally cut into cabochons.

Routine Enhancements :
There are no known enhancements for Chrome Diopside.

Care & Cleaning :
Diopside is a fairly soft and brittle gemstone so care should be taken to avoid any sharp blows or scratches. It is best cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove any collected dust or grease. As with most gemstones, Diopsides should be kept away from prolonged exposure to excessive heat and household chemicals that can permanently damage the stone.

Always store your Chrome Diopside jewelry in a fabric-lined box away from other harder jewelry items so as to avoid damage / scratching.