TERRIUM — A mineralogy cabinet


Diópsido

Diópsido is a mineral with formula CaMgSi₂O₆, in the Silicatos (Inosilicatos) group. This specimen comes from Cantera Soriana, Estopiñán del Castillo, Huesca, Aragón, España and joined the Terrium collection in 2025.

Diópsido from Cantera Soriana, Estopiñán del Castillo, Huesca, Aragón, España — Terrium

Description

Well-defined green diopside crystals on matrix, typical of pyroxene in metamorphic environments. They show a short prismatic habit and vitreous luster.

History of this specimen

Interesting specimen with visible crystals and a characteristic green color. Diopside is an important mineral in metamorphic petrology, associated with calc-silicate rocks, marbles, and serpentinites. In this case, the crystals are well developed and associated with the matrix. Often, its vibrant green color is due to traces of iron.

Technical data

Catalogue No.
0539
Internal reference
X0107
Composition
CaMgSi₂O₆
Name
Diópsido
Group
Silicatos (Inosilicatos)
Mine
Cantera Soriana
District / Municipality
Estopiñán del Castillo
Province
Huesca
Region
Aragón
Country
España
Size (cm)
6 x 5
Acquired
2025
Etymology
From the Greek 'di' (δίς), 'two' or 'double', and 'opsis' (ὄψις), 'view' or 'appearance', referring to the two possible orientations that can be observed in its prisms.
Quality
Buena
Value trend
Estable

Related specimens

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