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, 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  
Issuance of Real Goods Solar Class A common shares in conjunction with its acquisition of Alteris     8,700,000
Real Goods Solar's repurchase of its Class A common shares   379,400