mineraloid / man-made material

Goldstone (Synthetic Aventurescence Glass)

Cuprous Aventurescent Glass (Silicon Dioxide with Copper inclusions)

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: reddish-brown with sparkling metallic inclusions; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (glassy); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.8

Hardness: 5
Color: reddish-brown with sparkling metallic inclusions
Luster: Vitreous

Identified March 13, 2026More mineraloid / man-made material →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Created via a reduction-atmosphere melting process where copper crystals are precipitated out of molten glass. While often associated with 17th-century Venice (Murano), archaeological evidence suggests similar glassmaking techniques existed during the Roman Empire.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry, small carvings, and decorative crafts. It is a popular 'gemstone' for metaphysical collection due to its visual appeal and historical association with alchemy.

Geological facts

Also known as 'Monk's Gold' or 'Stellaria,' legend says it was discovered by accident when Italian monks spilled copper filings into molten glass. It is one of the few synthetic materials commonly sold in rock shops alongside natural minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its uniform sparkle (aventurescence) and reddish-brown glass base; unlike natural sunstone, the sparkles are perfectly even and triangular/hexagonal under a loupe. It is commonly found in retail metaphysical shops globally.

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