Chrome Diopside: A Juicy Gem for Welcoming Spring
Six strands of rough chrome diopside crystal beads in jewelry designer Michelle Pajak-Reynolds’s workshop. Photo credit: Michelle Pajak-Reynolds
History and Lore of Chrome Diopside
Chrome diopside is a striking green gemstone that symbolizes the Tree of Life, Mother Nature, renewal, prosperity, and abundance. Its name derives from the Greek words "di" meaning "two" and "opsis" meaning "appearance" or "face," referring to the unique orientation of its crystal prism. Like many green gemstones, chrome diopside is believed to support the heart chakra, fostering loving, compassionate emotions and clear, focused thinking.
In meditation, placing chrome diopside on the forehead is thought to enhance creative visualization and inspire positive dreams. While not officially assigned to any specific birth month, chrome diopside is commonly associated with the zodiac signs of Pisces, Gemini, and Virgo.
Work in progress: An 18 karat gold 4-prong setting, in its early stages, sit on jeweler Michelle Pajak-Reynolds’s workbench waiting to be set with a rough chrome diopside gem. Photo credit: Michelle Pajak-Reynolds
Origins and Geology
Chrome diopside is a calcium magnesium silicate (CaMgSi₂O₆) and belongs to the pyroxene group of minerals. Its signature vivid green color is caused by traces of chromium, making it stunning whether in its natural, rough or raw crystal form or when expertly faceted. Faceted chrome diopsides larger than 2 carats are quite rare, as the color tends to darken with size, with very large stones appearing nearly black.
Discovered in 1988, chrome diopside is primarily mined in Russia's Eastern Siberian region, particularly in Ingali, where it earned the nickname "Siberian Emerald." More recently, deposits of chrome diopside have been found in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Madagascar, Pakistan, and South Africa.
Unlike other green gemstones, such as emeralds, which are often treated with oils or resins to enhance their color, chrome diopside requires no such treatment. The vivid green you see in this gemstone is exactly how Mother Nature intended it to be.
Caring for Chrome Diopside Jewelry
On the Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness, chrome diopside ranges from 5.5-6.5 meaning it can be scratched by harder gemstones like sapphire, ruby, and diamond. To protect your chrome diopside, it’s best to store it separately from other gems and jewelry. Jewelry featuring either faceted or rough, uncut chrome diopside can be safely cleaned with a mild soap and warm water solution. Use a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to gently scrub any areas that need attention.
Why I Love Designing with Chrome Diopside
I first began incorporating chrome diopside into my jewelry designs in 2017, and I was instantly captivated by its signature vibrant, almost electric green color. The unique shade of green in chrome diopside instantly evokes the essence of spring, standing apart from other green gemstones. Unlike emeralds, which have more blue, or peridot, which has yellow or lime tones, chrome diopside’s green is refreshingly distinct. My favorite form of chrome diopside is the rough, uncut or “raw” crystals, as their unique textures and shapes make each gem a rare, one-of-a-kind treasure.
Please note, all metaphysical and healing properties listed are collected from a variety of sources and shared for educational, historical and entertainment purposes only. The authors and Michelle Pajak-Reynolds Studios LLC do not guarantee the validity of such statements nor is any of this information meant to treat medical conditions. If you have a medical concern, please consult your medical provider for appropriate treatment options.
