Tektites · rare
Moldavite
Moldavite is a green tektite formed by a meteorite impact about 15 million years ago. Found only in the Czech Republic, it's prized by collectors and crystal enthusiasts.
Also known as: tektite, meteorite glass, czech gem.
Moldavite properties at a glance
| Type | Tektites |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | SiO2 (+Al2O3) |
| Mohs hardness | 5.5 |
| Crystal system | amorphous |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.4 |
| Transparency | translucent |
| Common colors | Forest Green, Olive Green |
| Rarity | rare |
Geology & background
Formed 15 million years ago when a meteorite impact melted terrestrial rock, ejecting it into the atmosphere where it cooled into glass.
Used as a talisman for fertility and good fortune since the Stone Age, 25,000 years ago.
How to identify Moldavite
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Moldavite examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Moldavite identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Moldavite vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Moldavite.
Where Moldavite is found
Moldavite is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Moldavite worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $50 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $200 |
| Premium specimen | $2000+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Collector specimens
- Spiritual practices
Interesting facts
- Formed by a meteorite impact 15 million years ago
- Found only in a limited area of the Czech Republic
- Highly prized in crystal healing for its 'extraterrestrial' energy
Care & safety
Treat Moldavite as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Moldavite FAQ
What is Moldavite?
Moldavite is a green tektite formed by a meteorite impact about 15 million years ago. Found only in the Czech Republic, it's prized by collectors and crystal enthusiasts.
How much is Moldavite worth?
Entry-level Moldavite specimens sell for around $50, a typical collector specimen for about $200, and premium pieces for $2000 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Moldavite?
Moldavite has a Mohs hardness of 5.5. It is about as hard as window glass: a knife barely marks it, while a steel file (Mohs 6.5) will.
Where is Moldavite found?
Notable sources of Moldavite include Czech Republic (only source). Formed 15 million years ago when a meteorite impact melted terrestrial rock, ejecting it into the atmosphere where it cooled into glass..
What is Moldavite used for?
Moldavite is used for jewelry, collector specimens, and spiritual practices.
