Diopside is a beautiful and relatively inexpensive gemstone that is occasionally seen in commercial jewelry. Specimens that contain chromium have a brilliant green color. Many people who see chrome diopside in a jewelry display initially think that it is an emerald. Then they are surprised to learn it is a gem they have never heard about.

Diopside is a gem best used in earrings, pendants, pins, and brooches because it has a low hardness and fragile cleavage. It is unsuitable for rings and bracelets unless it is placed in a setting that will provide protection against abrasion and impact.

In addition to the green chrome diopside, the gem occurs in two different appearances. One is a translucent light blue to purple granular material known as “violane” which is used for cabochons, beads, and ornamental projects. The other, called “star diopside,” is a dark opaque gem with a silk of fine inclusions that, when cut into cabochons, exhibits asterism.