Official rule2024 edition (Space Cowboys)
What is the gem limit in Splendor?
10 piecesShort answer
10 pieces at the end of your turn, gold included. During your turn you can go over, but before your turn ends you return any extras of your choice to the supply until you're down to 10.
The rule:
Splendor’s gem limit is 10 pieces, gold included, checked at the end of your turn: you can go over during your turn, but before it ends you return extras of your choice to the supply until you hold 10.
- The limit: 10 pieces, checked at the end of your turn.
- Gold counts as a piece.
- Going over during your turn is fine. At the end, return pieces of your choice until you have 10.
- Bonuses don’t count. Your Development cards aren’t pieces, however many you own.
- Keep them visible: your pieces must be in view of all players at all times.
Example:
Ana holds 9 pieces and takes 3 different gems, reaching 12. At the end of her turn she chooses 2 to put back, keeping the colors she needs.
Why players argue about it:
Some players refuse to take gems that would push them over 10. You can take them; you just pick which ones to give back. Others forget gold counts.