Diopside is a calcium magnesium silicate mineral of the pyroxene group. The name Diopside is best applied only to light-colored specimens. Diopside is common to many of the high-temperature assemblages of the calcium-silicate units.

Diopside is an important rock forming mineral found in several metamorphic and igneous rocks. Diopside is a part of an important solid solution series of the pyroxene group. It has a beautiful rich green color and is the most affordable gemstone. It is ideal for bright green accent stones.

It is faceted into gems and serves as fine collectors' specimen. Diopside is available in a chromium-rich gem variety called chrome Diopside in bright color. Being relatively soft, Diopside is suited for making beautiful earrings and pendants than rings that receive too much wear. Chrome Diopside is mostly mined in Yakutia and Siberia.