About Diopside
History and Folklore
Diopside came from the Greek word dis meaning “double” and opsis meaning “vision”. In reference to its pleochroism - different colors are displayed when viewed from different angles. Some claim it will help you in your relationship, health, spirituality and financial success. It is also believed to help you achieve your goals and increase creative awareness.
Facts and Information
Diopside was not very common until around 1988 when a large deposit was found in Siberia (Russia). With the fall of the Iron Curtain, the export of chrome diopside flooded onto the world market. Chrome Diopside gets its color from the element chromium. It is not known to be treated. Chrome Diopside is a great choice for earrings and pendants since it does not stand up to heavy wear and tear.
Major Sources
Identification and Characteristics
- R.I.: 1.675 - 1.701 (+.029, -.010)
- Hardness: 5.5 - 6
- S.G.: 3.29 (+.11, -.07)
Cleaning Methods
- Safe in warm, mild soapy water
- Very risky in the ultrasonic
- Never use in steamer
