mineral

Chrome Diopside

Diopside (Magnesium Calcium Silicate) - CaMgSi2O6 + Cr

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Vivid forest green to emerald green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Distinct/Perfect in two directions; Specific Gravity: 3.22 to 3.38

Hardness: 5
Color: Vivid forest green to emerald green
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in ultramafic igneous rocks (kimberlites and peridotites) or through contact metamorphism of siliceous limestones and dolostones. Most gem-quality chrome diopside is sourced from the Inagli River area in Eastern Siberia, Russia, formed in Mesozoic-aged deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (rings, earrings, and pendants). It is often considered an affordable alternative to emerald or tsavorite garnet due to its rich green color.

Geological facts

It is often called the 'Russian Emerald' because of its deep green color and the fact that its primary commercial source is Russia. Unlike emerald, its green color is entirely natural and rarely treated. It is also a 'diamond indicator' mineral used by geologists to locate diamond-bearing kimberlite pipes.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its intense 'bottle green' color and a relatively soft surface (will scratch more easily than quartz or emerald). In the field, look for monoclinic crystals with a glassy luster. Gem-quality specimens are mostly found in Russia, though small deposits exist in Pakistan, South Africa, and the USA.

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