gemstone
Goldstone (Brown/Gold)
Aventurine Glass (Man-made glass with Copper inclusions)
Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Reddish-brown with gold metallic sparkles; Luster: Vitreous to sub-metallic; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (glass base); Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.8
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Reddish-brown with gold metallic sparkles
- Luster
- Vitreous to sub-metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Reddish-brown with gold metallic sparkles; Luster: Vitreous to sub-metallic; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (glass base); Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.8
Formation & geological history
Goldstone is a human-processed material created in a low-oxygen reducing atmosphere. It was originally discovered by 17th-century Venetian glassmakers. It is formed by melting silica, copper oxide, and other metal oxides, then allowing the copper to crystallize into tiny metallic platelets within the cooling glass.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative purposes, jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and metaphysical collecting.
Geological facts
Despite the name 'Goldstone', it contains no actual gold; the 'glitter' comes from tiny crystals of metallic copper. It is often mistaken for natural Sunstone or Aventurine.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its uniform, intense aventurescence (sparkle) and smooth, glass-like surface. It is not found in nature; if seen in the 'field,' it is likely discarded or lost jewelry material.
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