man-made glass
Blue Goldstone
Man-made glass with cobalt and metal flecks
Dark blue to nearly black base with bright, metallic, starry inclusions. Hardness is around 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. Vitreous luster.
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Physical properties
Dark blue to nearly black base with bright, metallic, starry inclusions. Hardness is around 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. Vitreous luster.
Formation & geological history
Goldstone is a type of glittering glass made in a low-oxygen reducing atmosphere. The original process was invented in Venice in the 17th century. Blue goldstone is created by substituting cobalt for copper.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary arts, carved figurines, cabochons, and inexpensive bead jewelry.
Geological facts
Despite often being sold alongside natural semi-precious stones, goldstone is entirely synthetic. It is sometimes called 'aventurine glass' due to its resemblance to the natural mineral aventurine.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its flawless, uniform distribution of metallic flecks in a glassy matrix. Common in rock shops and metaphysical stores.
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