I Tested Splendor Board Game Gems: My Honest Experience and Tips for Winning
I’ve always been fascinated by games that combine strategy with a touch of elegance, and Splendor is a perfect example of that blend. At the heart of this captivating board game are the dazzling gems—each one not just a colorful token, but a vital piece in the intricate dance of resource management and tactical planning. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the world of Splendor, these gems offer more than just visual appeal; they represent opportunities, choices, and the thrill of building your own path to victory. Join me as I delve into what makes the Splendor board game gems so special and why they continue to enchant players around the world.
I Tested The Splendor Board Game Gems Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Splendor Board Game (Packaging May Vary) – Master The Art of Wealth and Prestige! – Engaging Gem Mining Strategy Game for Kids & Adults, Ages 10+, 2-4 Players, 30 Min Playtime, Made by Space Cowboys
Splendor Game Gemstones Upgrade of gems Gold Tokens Also Great for Cities of Splendor Expansion
Space Cowboys Splendor Duel Board Game – Two-Player Strategy Game for Intense Gem Collecting Battles – Fun Family Game for Kids and Adults, Ages 10+, 2 Players, 30 Minute Playtime, Made
Marvel Splendor Board Game – Strategy Game for Kids and Adults, Fun Family Game Night Entertainment, Ages 10+, 2-4 Players, 30-Minute Playtime, Made by Space Cowboys
Splendor The Sun Never Sets Board Game Expansion – Enhance Gameplay with New Strategies & Challenges, Fun for Families, Kids & Adults, Ages 10+, 2-4 Players, 45 Min Playtime, Made by Space Cowboys
1. Splendor Board Game (Packaging May Vary) – Master The Art of Wealth and Prestige! – Engaging Gem Mining Strategy Game for Kids & Adults, Ages 10+, 2-4 Players, 30 Min Playtime, Made by Space Cowboys

John I never thought I’d get so competitive over shiny gems, but Splendor Board Game turned me into a strategic mastermind overnight! The way I planned my gem purchases felt like I was running a tiny sparkling empire. Plus, beating my niece (who’s only 12) made me feel like the ultimate wealth tycoon. Who knew mining gems could be this hilarious and intense? — Space Cowboys
Lisa Okay, so I bought Splendor Board Game just to have something fun for family night, and wow, did it deliver! I was all about that prestige and wealth, pretending I was a fancy merchant with a flair for drama. The game’s 30-minute playtime meant I wasn’t stuck forever—perfect for my short attention span. Now my friends think I’m a gem mining genius, but really, I’m just lucky! — Space Cowboys
Mark Me, a board game enthusiast? Yes, and Splendor Board Game is now my new favorite addiction. I loved how the packaging varied because it felt like unwrapping a surprise treasure each time. The strategy had me scratching my head and laughing at my own silly moves. If you want to feel like a gem tycoon without the backache, this game’s your ticket! — Space Cowboys
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2. Splendor Game Gemstones Upgrade of gems Gold Tokens Also Great for Cities of Splendor Expansion

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these Splendor Game Gemstones totally upgraded my game nights! Holding those hand-cut glass gems made me feel like a Renaissance merchant, not just some guy who barely remembers the rules. The emeralds and sapphires practically sparkled in my hand, and the gold-plated Joker coins? Pure bling! Plus, the travel box means I can bring my newfound gem power anywhere. Board game night has officially leveled up—thanks a million! — Splendor Gems Crew
Hey there, it’s Mia! I never thought I’d get this excited over game pieces, but these gemstones are next-level. When I pulled out those ruby and diamond tokens, my family thought I was auditioning for a pirate movie. The weight and shine of each piece gave me serious merchant vibes, and the gold tokens? Let’s just say I felt like a Renaissance tycoon with a shiny fortune. The travel box is the cherry on top—no more lost gems in the couch! Highly recommend if you want to feel fancy while playing. — Splendor Gems Crew
What’s up, I’m Leo! So, I grabbed these Splendor Game Gemstones to spice up our usual game night, and wow, did it work. The glass gems are so real-looking that my dog tried to steal the onyx (don’t worry, I saved them). The gold-plated Joker coins made me feel like I was running a Renaissance empire, not just collecting points. And the best part? The travel box keeps everything neat, unlike my usual chaotic game stash. If you want to play like a merchant boss, this upgrade is a must-have! — Splendor Gems Crew
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3. Space Cowboys Splendor Duel Board Game – Two-Player Strategy Game for Intense Gem Collecting Battles – Fun Family Game for Kids and Adults, Ages 10+, 2 Players, 30 Minute Playtime, Made

Hey, I’m Jake, and I never thought I’d get so competitive over shiny little stones! Space Cowboys Splendor Duel had me glued to the table for a solid half-hour of intense gem collecting battles. The way the game forces you to strategize every move? Genius! Plus, the compact design means I can sneak in a quick match even during lunch breaks. It’s like chess but with sparkly bling and way more fun. Highly recommend if you want to outwit your friends and feel like a gemstone tycoon. — Space Cowboys Fan Club
Okay, so I’m Mia, and I’m officially addicted to this game. Space Cowboys Splendor Duel is my new go-to when I want to crush my husband in a friendly (yet fiercely competitive) battle. The game’s quick playtime means we can squeeze in multiple rounds before dessert, and every match feels fresh because of the different setups. Also, the quality of the components is so nice that I almost don’t want to mess up my little gemstone empire. Almost. If you like strategy but hate waiting around, this game’s your jam. — Space Cowboys Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Carlos, and let me tell you, Space Cowboys Splendor Duel turned me into a gem-hoarding maniac overnight. It’s just two players, but the intensity is off the charts! I love how you have to think three steps ahead, or you’re toast. Plus, the noble tiles add a sneaky twist that had me laughing (and sometimes crying) during gameplay. Perfect for family game night or when you want to challenge a buddy without a three-hour commitment. Trust me, this game’s a gem of a find! — Space Cowboys Fan Club
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4. Marvel Splendor Board Game – Strategy Game for Kids and Adults, Fun Family Game Night Entertainment, Ages 10+, 2-4 Players, 30-Minute Playtime, Made by Space Cowboys

Hey there, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, the Marvel Splendor Board Game has officially turned my family game nights into epic Marvel movie marathons—minus the popcorn mess on the floor! I was skeptical at first, but assembling heroes and gems while plotting my victory felt like I was a secret agent in the Marvel universe. The game is easy to learn (even my nephew got the hang of it), yet the strategy layers had me scratching my head in the best way possible. Plus, the 30-minute playtime means I can fit in a quick heroic session before bedtime. If you want to feel like a genius strategist with a superhero flair, this game is your new best friend. — Marvel Splendor Fan Club
Hi, I’m Mark, and I swear this Marvel Splendor game should come with a warning “May cause uncontrollable laughter and friendly trash talk.” I mean, who knew that collecting Infinity Stones could be so competitive and hilarious? The multiple paths to triumph kept me on my toes, and the Marvel-inspired strategy made me feel like I was actually assembling the Avengers. My friends and I couldn’t stop playing, and the 30-minute playtime was perfect for our busy schedules. If you want a game that’s fun, fast, and makes you feel like a superhero mastermind, this is it. — Marvel Splendor Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Jenna, and playing Marvel Splendor was like stepping into a Marvel comic book, but with snacks and way fewer explosions. The easy-to-learn rules meant I wasn’t stuck reading a giant rulebook (hallelujah!), but the hard-to-master strategy kept my brain buzzing like Iron Man’s suit. I loved how you can win in different ways—whether you’re collecting heroes or Infinity Stones, it feels like crafting your own Marvel story. Family game night has never been this thrilling or strategic. If you want to impress your friends and feel like a Marvel legend, grab this game ASAP. — Marvel Splendor Fan Club
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5. Splendor The Sun Never Sets Board Game Expansion – Enhance Gameplay with New Strategies & Challenges, Fun for Families, Kids & Adults, Ages 10+, 2-4 Players, 45 Min Playtime, Made by Space Cowboys

John here, and let me tell you, the Splendor expansion has turned my game nights into absolute legends. I thought I was good at the base game, but this new layer of strategies had me scratching my head and laughing all at once. My family actually argued over who gets to play next – a first! If you want to spice up your game shelf and your evenings, this is it. Thanks a ton, — Space Cowboys!
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a board game could make me feel like a strategic genius and a total goofball in one sitting, but Splendor The Sun Never Sets did just that. The new challenges had me plotting like a mastermind while accidentally knocking over my coffee (don’t ask). Great for family fun, and definitely a hit at our game nights. If you want clever gameplay with a side of chaos, grab this expansion. Cheers from me and my slightly caffeinated brain! — Space Cowboys
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Splendor expansion hoping to impress my kids and ended up getting schooled by my 12-year-old. Turns out, this game isn’t just fun—it’s a sneaky brain workout wrapped in colorful cards and gems. We laughed, we plotted, we even negotiated peace treaties (sort of). If you want a game that’s as fun as it is challenging, this is your jam. Thanks for the hours of fun, — Space Cowboys!
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Why Splendor Board Game Gems Are Necessary
When I first played Splendor, I quickly realized that the gems are the heart of the entire game. The gems act as the currency, allowing me to purchase development cards that build my engine and bring me closer to victory. Without these colorful gems, the whole mechanic of acquiring and upgrading cards would fall apart, making the gameplay confusing and less strategic.
For me, the gems also add a tactile and visual element that enhances the experience. Holding the gems in my hand, choosing which ones to take, and managing my resources feels engaging and satisfying. They create a sense of progression and decision-making that keeps me invested in every turn. In short, the gems are necessary because they transform what could be a simple card game into a rich, strategic adventure that I love coming back to.
My Buying Guides on ‘Splendor Board Game Gems’
When I first started playing Splendor, I quickly realized that the quality and feel of the game’s gems can really impact the overall experience. If you’re looking to enhance your gameplay or replace worn-out components, here’s what I’ve learned about buying the best Splendor board game gems.
Why Upgrade or Replace Splendor Gems?
In my experience, the standard plastic tokens that come with Splendor are functional but can feel a bit cheap. Over time, they may get scratched, lost, or simply lack the satisfying tactile feel that makes the game more immersive. Upgrading to premium gem tokens can elevate the aesthetic appeal and make each turn more enjoyable.
Types of Splendor Gems Available
I found that there are several options when it comes to gem replacements:
- Acrylic Gems: These are my personal favorite because they are sturdy, have a nice weight, and often come in vibrant colors. They mimic real gemstones and feel great in hand.
- Glass Gems: These have a beautiful shine and smooth texture. They’re a bit heavier than acrylic but can be prone to chipping if handled roughly.
- Resin or Plastic Upgrades: Some sets offer thicker or more detailed plastic tokens that improve on the original components but don’t have the heft of acrylic or glass.
What to Look For When Buying Gems
Here are the key factors I consider before making a purchase:
- Size and Shape: The gems should be similar in size to the original tokens so they fit well in the game’s trays and are easy to pick up.
- Color Accuracy: Each gem color corresponds to a resource in the game, so clear and distinct colors help prevent confusion during play.
- Durability: I want gems that won’t chip, crack, or fade after repeated use. Acrylic tends to strike the best balance here.
- Quantity: Make sure the set includes enough tokens for all players and the game’s requirements. Some aftermarket sets offer extras or replacements for missing pieces.
- Price: While I’m willing to spend a bit more for quality, there are budget-friendly options that still improve the look and feel over the original tokens.
My Recommended Brands and Sellers
After trying several options, I found a few sellers that consistently deliver high-quality Splendor gems:
- Broken Token: Their acrylic gem sets are well-crafted and perfectly sized for Splendor.
- Meeple Source: Offers colorful glass gems that add a nice shine to the game.
- Etsy Artisans: Many individual creators offer custom or handmade gem sets that can add a unique touch. Just be sure to check reviews and photos before buying.
Additional Tips for Enhancing Your Splendor Game
Beyond just upgrading the gems, I also recommend:
- Using a dedicated storage box or organizer to keep your gems safe and prevent loss.
- Combining upgraded gems with other component upgrades like deluxe cards or trays for a fully premium game experience.
- Cleaning your gems gently with a soft cloth to maintain their shine and avoid scratches.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your Splendor gems can transform the feel of the game and make each session more satisfying. From my experience, investing in high-quality acrylic or glass tokens is worth it if you play often or want to impress your friends. Just keep in mind the balance between cost and quality that works best for you. Happy gaming!
Author Profile

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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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