Hedenbergite is a part of an important solid solution series of the pyroxene group. Hedenbergite is the iron rich end member of the series. Hedenbergite although usually darker than its gemstone cousin diopside, can still be a wonderful mineral specimen. Its dark green to black color can be stricking with the bright luster that is found on some specimens. While this is not an uncommon mineral, good crystals of hedenbergite are rare and specimens that show nice crystals, good color and luster are prized.
Color is black, greenish black, dark green and dark brown.
Luster is vitreous to dull. Transparency crystals are translucent to opaque. Good crystals are rare, more commonly compact, granular, lamellar and massive. Cleavage is perfect in two lengthwise directions at close to right angles and a basal parting direction is sometimes seen. Fracture is uneven to conchoidal.