Chrome Diopside: Green Goodness for Your Heart
Some of the world’s finest chrome diopside, also known as Russian emerald, arrives to us from the frigid cold of Russia’s Siberia and Yakutia. In addition to other green gemstones, such as emerald or tsavorite garnet, chrome diopside is quickly becoming a favorite for many people. Just take a peek at chrome diopside and you, too, will probably warm up to its beauty.
In addition to Russia, chrome diopside is found in many places, such as South Africa, Finland, Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Austria, Myanmar (Burma), and the United States. The chrome diopside from Sri Lanka rivals Siberia’s in quality. Diopside has also been found in Madagascar, Italy, Canada, Brazil, Pakistan, and India.
Chrome diopside has a deep, pure green color. Chromium is the mineral that gives the chrome diopside its green color. Emeralds have long been a green gemstone of choice. However, with up to two times more refraction, chrome diopside is a sparkly green that is winning many hearts over to its side. It is not as expensive as an emerald would be, but due to its increasing popularity, prices are rising a bit.
While chrome diopside is green, other diopside has been known to be slightly brownish, black, or colorless. India produces black star diopside. Cat’s eye chrome diopside, which is harder to find, comes from diopside containing lots of fibers.
In addition to being known as Russian emerald, chrome diopside has also been referred to as chromium diopside, Russian diopside, and Siberian emerald. Chrome diopside has been said to energize the body while soothing its soul. If worn close to the chest, some say it’s good for the heart.
Usually, chrome diopside is found cut in smaller sizes (under 2 carats). It is rare to see a cut that’s over 5 carats. As the sizes get too big, the color of the stone becomes too dark. Emerald cuts are popular. Due to the soft nature of the chrome diopside gemstone (between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale of hardness), round and oval cuts are also frequently used.
Chrome diopside can be used in jewelry. Pendants, earrings, and necklaces are the safest ways for this stone to be used. As stated earlier, chrome diopside is not a hard stone and could easily become scratched. If worn on a ring or bracelet, chrome diopside needs to be in a protective setting. Avoid extreme physical activities when wearing this gemstone. When cleaning your chrome diopside jewelry, use water, mild soap, and a toothbrush. Always store your gemstone jewelry in a manner where it can’t be scratched by other pieces of jewelry.
Whether you decide to go with emerald, chrome diopside, or tsavorite garnet, you’ll make your heart happy. Of course, if given as a gift, you’ll not only make your heart warm and happy, but the recipient’s as well.
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