Blue Goldstone
Man-Made Glass with Copper Inclusions · Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Amorphous (Man-made glass)
Mineral Group
Man-Made Vitreous Material
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with Cu inclusions
Formation Process
Synthetic laboratory process involving the reduction of copper compounds in a molten silica glass mixture
About This Crystal
A tumbled, polished dark blue or purplish-blue stone filled with countless sparkling metallic copper crystal flakes that resemble a starry night sky, exhibiting a vitreous to metallic luster.
Physical Characteristics
Dark blue body color with metallic silver-blue or copper flecks, white streak, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, specific gravity around 2.5 to 2.8, brittle tenacity.
Optical Properties
Singly refractive, opaque to translucent with high metallic aventurescence caused by suspended reflective copper crystals.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Manufactured globally, historically originated in 17th-century Italy (Venice)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6, moderately durable but can be scratched by quartz and harder minerals, sensitive to thermal shock.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperature changes.
Rarity & Value
Common and inexpensive, widely available as tumbled stones, beads, and jewelry components.
Special Characteristics
Intense aventurescence (sparkling effect) due to the suspension of reduced copper crystals inside the glass matrix.
Lore & History
Invented by the Miotti family in 17th-century Venice through alchemical accident, often associated with ambition, vitality, and learning in modern crystal healing.