Dioptase or Russian Emerald Gemstone - The Stone of the Heart

Dioptase is an emerald green silicate of copper. Dioptase is associated with the Heart Chakra and is often referred to as a ‘heart stone’ as it is a powerful stone to awaken love and compassion and to heal emotional distress. It is also known as Russian Emerald (or Copper Emerald) and is seen in colors like deep vivid green, emerald-green or turquoise. This stone embodies the green ray like emerald and is often mistaken as Emerald Gemstone. Though this stone may look like Emerald because of its color, structure and texture, it is less transparent than emerald. This is a stone has a hardness rating of 5 on the Mohs scale with a trigonal crystal system. It is moderately toxic. It is a rare gemstone and a collector’s item. It comes at a higher price and often in small sizes. Dioptase gets its name from the Greek "dia" meaning through and "optos" meaning visible. This name was given by R. J. Hauyin in 1797. This stone is an exceptionally good stone for those born under the Zodiac Sign of Taurus.

Notable occurrences are found in Iran, Russia, North Africa, United States, Chile, Namibia, Peru and the US.

Dioptase is a powerful healing stone associated with the Heart Chakra and can help in clearing and stimulating the energies of all the Chakras for higher level of awareness. It can help by breaking through any blocks in the lower three chakras. It is an excellent Stone for mending a broken heart by healing the feelings of betrayal, heart ache etc and awaken love and compassion to move forward in life. It is a crystal which motivates to live in the present. It is a good stone for all those who have suffered from emotional wounds like abusive relationships, traumas etc by promoting self love, forgiveness, courage, confidence, emotional balance, self worth, positive attitude and strength. Dioptase is said to activate spiritual attunement and psychic vision when placed on the third eye chakra. It is said to bring awareness of inner riches. It is an excellent gemstone for Meditation and helps to open the inner eyes. It promotes living in the present moment and activates past life memories.

Dioptase is also a strong mental cleanser and detoxifier. It stimulates the immune system. It is a good stone for treating depression, chronic headaches (migraine), cell disorders, blood pressure, pre menstrual syndrome and heart burn. This stone is particularly effective for overcoming addictions and stress.

Wearing this stone as jewelry is said to bring love, prosperity, creativity and good health to the wearer. However, it is a very fragile gemstone and should be handled with great care. Avoid cleaning the stone in an ultrasonic cleaner. Also avoid harsh blows and exposure to chemicals. It is also advisable to store this stone separately to avoid scratches.