Goldstone

Goldstone is one of the lesser known gemlike materials used for jewelry. Despite the name it's not made from gold, nor is it a stone - it isn't even really a gem! So what is it?

What Is Goldstone?

Goldstone is an artificially created form of glass which contains large number of tiny embedded flakes of copper. It was discovered accidentally by alchemists and for this reason is also known as "aventurine glass" - the name aventurine coming from the Italian for "chance". Goldstone glass is not the same as natural aventurine; in an unusual twist the natural stone was actually named after the man-made product which is resembles!

Goldstone is usually a reddy brown colour. The copper flakes inside glisten in the light, hence the name "goldstone". An alternative name, also inspired by its appearance, is stellaria as in "stars". Other colours of goldstone also exist, of which the most common are blue, purple and green.

Although most commonly seen in the form of chips or beads, goldstone has other uses in jewelry such as necklaces, pendants and earrings. It's also sometimes used for the production of glass figurines.

History

The exact history of goldstone is uncertain. We know it originated in Europe in the seventeenth century, almost certainly in Italy. However there are various stories as to its origin.

The most prosaic history of goldstone says that it was first produced by the Miotti family of Venice. However there are also stories that it had been around for years before the Miottis were granted the licence to produce it. Some say that it was first created by monks experimenting in natural sciences, others even claim that it was created by alchemists attempting to turn base metals into gold.

Properties

Various meanings and properties have been attributed to goldstone down the centuries. The normal red-brown variety is often said to help to provide energy and stimulate both body and mind. Blue goldstone is said to bring luck and was also believed by some to help relieve pain and encourage healing.