Chroma — Embedding database for RAG and semantic search
Chroma — Embedding database for RAG and semantic search
Start with meaning, then move to detail.
This lesson explains Chroma — Embedding database for RAG and semantic search as part of getting started with Hermes correctly. You will learn what it does, when it matters, and the smallest safe test that proves it works.
If you are new, do not memorize names. Focus on three questions: what problem does this solve, what access does it need, and how can you verify the result?
For practice, inspect the first example, identify its effects, run it on test data, and compare the result with the source claim.
For advanced readers, inspect Skill metadata, Reference: full SKILL.md, When to use Chroma, then verify failure modes and version compatibility.
No prior experience is required; follow the steps on a safe test setup first.
A clear outcome before you read.
- Understand Chroma — Embedding database for RAG and semantic search without assumed prior knowledge.
- Separate the source description from what still needs testing in your environment.
- Read the first command and identify its inputs and outputs before copying it.
Short definitions before the details.
- Skill
- An instruction bundle that teaches Hermes a repeatable workflow without necessarily adding an external service.
Embedding database for RAG and semantic search
What does the source say, and in what order?
- 01Skill metadata
Start here to understand the core idea or structure.
- 02Reference: full SKILL.md
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 03When to use Chroma
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 04Quick start
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 05Installation
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 06Basic usage (Python)
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 07Core operations
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 081. Create collection
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 092. Add documents
Read this after the foundation, then connect it to the previous step.
- 103. Query (similarity search)
Finish here to verify the result and special cases.
Copy only after you understand the effect.
# Python
pip install chromadb
# JavaScript/TypeScript
npm install chromadb @chroma-core/default-embed## Core operations
### 1. Create collection### 2. Add documentsRead the first command and identify its inputs and outputs before copying it.
Match every command to your installed Hermes version, review the files and accounts it can reach, and use non-sensitive data for the first test. If this explanation differs from the source, the official source wins.