mineraloid / man-made glass
Goldstone
Aventurine glass (Synthetic glass with copper inclusions)
Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Reddish-brown with golden metallic sparkles; Luster: Vitreous to metallic; Crystal structure: Amorphous (glass); Specific gravity: Approx 2.5-2.8
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Reddish-brown with golden metallic sparkles
- Luster
- Vitreous to metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Reddish-brown with golden metallic sparkles; Luster: Vitreous to metallic; Crystal structure: Amorphous (glass); Specific gravity: Approx 2.5-2.8
Formation & geological history
Goldstone is a man-made material created in a low-oxygen reducing atmosphere. Molten glass is infused with copper salts; as the glass cools, the copper crystallizes into tiny metallic platelets. Legend says it was discovered by Italian monks in the 17th century.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry, ornamental carvings, beads, and as a 'healing crystal' in metaphysical circles.
Geological facts
Despite its name, Goldstone contains no gold. It is also frequently confused with the natural gemstone Sunstone, though Goldstone's sparkles are much more uniform and intense.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its perfectly uniform distribution of 'glitter' within a glass matrix. It often shows smooth, curved fracture surfaces typical of glass (conchoidal fracture). It is not found in nature; it is always the result of human manufacturing.
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