Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

Effect of Changes in Gaiam, Inc.'s Ownership Interest in Its Subsidiaries on Gaiam, Inc.'s Equity (Parenthetical) (Detail)

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Effect of Changes in Gaiam, Inc.'s Ownership Interest in Its Subsidiaries on Gaiam, Inc.'s Equity (Parenthetical) (Detail) (Paid-in Capital, USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Real Goods Solar
Dec. 31, 2010
Real Goods Solar
Dec. 31, 2011
Alteris
Real Goods Solar
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]        
Acquisition of a noncontrolling interest, related taxes $ 16      
Issuance of Real Goods Solar Class A common shares in conjunction with nonemployee director fees, and for employee share-based compensation   29,408,000 21,040,000  
Issuance of Real Goods Solar Class A common shares in conjunction with its acquisition of Alteris       8,700,000,000
Real Goods Solar's repurchase of its Class A common shares   379,400,000    
Issuance of Real Goods Solar Class A common shares in conjunction with nonemployee director fees, and for employee share-based compensation   29,408,000 21,040,000