Hundreds of millions of years ago, the eruption of volcanoes deep in the earth pushed fragments of ancient materials close to the surface through channels called pipes. Over time, running water, glaciers, landslides, and other natural forces swept the fragments at the tops of the pipes away, leaving trails of sparkling, bottle-green diopside. Geologists search for signs of these gem trails hoping that the pipes they lead to will also contain an even more valuable stone, diamonds.
But diopside is a treasure in and of itself. The most recognizable version, called chrome diopside, has a richness of color that rivals emeralds with double the refractive power, giving it a radiance worthy of any pirate’s chest. Star diopside is a darker, more mysterious form. The color in these stones is so deep it appears black, and silky inclusions form a unique, four-pointed star.
Diopside marks the path to more than treasures of the earth—spiritual healers use it to help people who struggle with their sense of self-worth discover and value their own greatest attributes. For those seeking emotional healing, diopside is known as the “crying stone” because it allows one to access and release deeply held grief. The stone is best placed close to the heart or in a spot where it can light the way to spiritual and emotional treasure.