Diopside is a monoclinic pyroxene mineral with composition MgCaSi₂O₆. It forms a solid solution series with hedenbergite (FeCaSi₂O₆) and augite. Diopside is found in mafic igneous rocks as well as in many metamorphic rocks. It is also a constituent of the Earth's mantle.

Diopside is found in two forms: the black star diopside and the chrome diopside (which includes chromium giving it a green colour).

External links

• Black star diopside (gemhut.com)
• Chrome diopside (gemhut.com)