Orange Goldstone is a manmade glass with reflective inclusions that give it a sparkling, metallic appearance. Despite its name, it is not a natural stone but a type of aventurine glass, developed through controlled manufacturing processes. The orange variety contains copper crystals suspended in the glass matrix, producing a vivid shimmer.
Features:
-
Composition: Made from silica (glass) infused with finely dispersed metallic copper particles that create its signature glittering effect.
-
Appearance: Characterized by a translucent to opaque orange base color with bright, reflective sparkles visible under direct light.
-
Manufacturing Process: Goldstone is created by melting silica with copper salts at high temperatures, then cooling it slowly so copper crystals form and are preserved in the glass.
-
Educational Value: Useful for demonstrating crystal growth in a glass matrix, light reflection from inclusions, and the boundary between synthetic and natural materials in geology.
This polished specimen is a durable and visually engaging example of human-made mineral-like materials, ideal for educational use, display, or collectors of unique lapidary items.
