About Diopside

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Keep reading to discover more about diopside

  • Mineralogy and geology*
  • Metaphysical, Spiritual and Healing** Properties***
  • Common Associations

 

Mineralogy and Geology of Diopside

Mineral formula: CaMgSi2O6

Crystal system: monoclinic

Crystal habit: Prismatic crystals with square cross sections.

Cleavage: distinct / good on {110]

Fracture:  irregular / uneven to conchoidal

Color: Light to dark green, blue, brown, colorless, snow white, grey, pale violet

Luster: vitreous to dull

Diaphaneity: transparent to opaque

Moh’s scale hardness: 5½ - 6½

Streak: white

Specific gravity: 3.22 – 3.38

Named after:  Named in 1806 by Rene Just Haüy from the Greek δις- for "double" (or even better for "twice") and όψις" (or "ὄψις" in ancient Greek) - for "appearance", in allusion to two possible orientations of the prism zone.

Type locality: Piedmont, Italy; and the Ala Valley, Turin, Italy

Geological occurrence: Diopside is a common mineral in many igneous and some metamorphic rocks.

Spiritual, Metaphysical and Healing Properties

Melody states that this mineral can be used to stimulate the intellect, providing assistance with scientific and mathematical pursuits. It enhances academic learning. It helps one to have appropriate pride in oneself, with humility and respect. It stimulates the feminine side of one’s nature; it can help heal those who cannot cry. It has been used to calm pets.

Common Associations

  • Chakra – the sacral and solar plexus chakras, depending on color (orange to yellow)
  • Numerology – vibrates to the number 9.
  • Zodiac – Virgo
  • Birthstone – no association
  • Wedding Anniversary – no association

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* Mineralogical information is from mindat.org

** Always consult with your medical professional for any physical or long-term healing issues.

*** Metaphysical properties come from: 

Love Is in the Earth (1995) Melody, Earth-Love Publishing House, 726 pp.

The Crystal Bible, A Definitive Guide to Crystals (2003) Judy Hall, Walking Stick Press, 399 pp.

Crystal Muse (2017) Heather Askinosie and Timmi Jandro, Hay House, 285 pp.

Crystal Gridwork (2018) Kiera Fogg, Weiser Books, 128 pp.