Description

Diopside is a magnesium calcium metamorphic silicate mineral that crystallizes in the form of grainy masses and small prismatic (twinning) shards. It is a member of the Pyroxene group of minerals and was first discovered by Jose Bonifacio de Andrada e Silva in 1806 (he is also credited for finding Andradite, Petalite, and Spodumene). He chose to name it after the Greek word “dis” meaning double, “opse” meaning face. This was chosen in reference to its growing habit which can occasionally form duel prismatic crystal faces. Diopside is primarily found in any variety shades of green, but can also occur as white, brown, yellow, grey or black. The black variety often has a “star” effect when cut at the right angle. This star effect is called Asterism, and is an optical phenomenon created by concentrations of reflected light.