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Equity (Details 1) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
 3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2012
Sep. 30, 2011
Sep. 30, 2012
Sep. 30, 2011
Changes in a subsidiary of Gaiam, Inc.'s investment ownership interests on Gaiam, Inc.'s equity        
Net income (loss) $ (11,157) [1] $ (1,229) [1] $ (14,429) [1] $ (6,370) [1]
Decrease in Gaiam, Inc.'s paid-in capital for its subsidiary's acquisition of a noncontrolling interest, including related taxes of $16     (163)  
Change from net loss attributable to Gaiam, 'Inc. and transfers from the noncontrolling interest     (14,599)  
Paid-in Capital [Member]
        
Changes in a subsidiary of Gaiam, Inc.'s investment ownership interests on Gaiam, Inc.'s equity        
Decrease in Gaiam, Inc.'s paid-in capital for its subsidiary's acquisition of a noncontrolling interest, including related taxes of $16     $ (170)  
[1] RSOL was deconsolidated and accounted for as an equity method investment effective December 31, 2011. Consequently, RSOL is reported as an equity method investment for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 and as a consolidated subsidiary for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2011.