Updated as of June 2026
Goldstone
A man made glass containing tiny copper crystals that create a sparkling glitter. Historically credited to monks, it is valued today for its cheerful shimmer.
Price range$2 to $25/ct
Hardness (Mohs)5.5
ColorsBrown, Copper, Blue, Green
BirthstoneNone
AltGems Score How we score
4.8/10
Goldstone pros and cons
Pros
- Strong value for the look
- Available in brown, copper, blue, green
Cons
- Softer at Mohs 5.5, best in protected settings
- Commonly treated (man-made glass (fully synthetic))
- Opaque, so it shows color rather than sparkle
Goldstone is best kept for earrings, pendants, and protected settings rather than rough daily wear.
Explore Goldstone
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestGoldstone jewelry
Goldstone ringsGoldstone engagement ringsGoldstone necklacesGoldstone pendantsGoldstone earringsGoldstone bracelets
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Setting this softer stone (Mohs 5.5) in an exposed daily-wear ring instead of a protective bezel or halo.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Glass based and fairly durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid sharp blows and ultrasonic cleaners.
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Where to buy Goldstone: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Goldstone?
A man made glass containing tiny copper crystals that create a sparkling glitter. Historically credited to monks, it is valued today for its cheerful shimmer. It rates 5.5 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in brown, copper, blue, green.
How much does Goldstone cost?
Goldstone typically runs about $2 to $25 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Goldstone price guide for detail.
Is Goldstone good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 5.5 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Goldstone?
Goldstone earns an overall AltGems Score of 4.8 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Goldstone?
Glass based and fairly durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid sharp blows and ultrasonic cleaners.