The main ways to get a Unova Stone in Pokémon GO are from Research Breakthroughs and sometimes from defeating Team GO Rocket Leaders. It’s a rare item, so you usually need a bit of luck rather than a guaranteed drop.

How to get it

  • Complete a Field Research task each day for 7 days to earn a Research Breakthrough ; that reward has a chance to include a Unova Stone.
  • Defeat Team GO Rocket Leaders like Cliff, Sierra, and Arlo for another chance at the item.
  • Some special Timed Research or event rewards can also include Unova Stones.

Fastest practical method

If you want the most reliable routine, do your daily Field Research every day and keep stacking Research Breakthroughs. That’s the most consistent way to roll for one, even though it is not guaranteed.

Extra note

Older guides also mention Giovanni as a possible source, but newer writeups emphasize Research Breakthroughs and Rocket Leaders as the main current methods.