Moldavite is a mineral with a hardness of 5 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness [?]. These Amorphously structured gems are made of silicon dioxide with aluminum oxide, their full chemical compound being SiO2(+Al2O3).

No, despite its name, Moldavite isn't some fancy green mold growing in a cave! Moldavite is a forest-green tektite formed by a meteorite impact around 15 million years ago in present-day Germany. Found primarily in the Czech Republic's Moldau River valley. Known for its distinctive bottle-green color and wrinkled, sculpted appearance. Popular in jewelry and among metaphysical collectors. Due to its unique origin and increasing rarity, genuine moldavite is expensive and often faked.

How rare is this? Moldavite is extremely rare, found only in a small region of the Czech Republic. Less than 275 tons have ever been discovered. For comparison, diamonds are found on multiple continents with annual production around 116 million carats. Even relatively scarce gems like tanzanite (only found in Tanzania) are more abundant. Given limited supply and high demand, authentic Moldavite's price has increased significantly, now ranging from $30-$100 per gram.

Is Moldavite really from space?

Yes! Moldavite is a tektite formed by a meteorite impact about 15 million years ago. When the meteorite hit Earth, it melted surrounding rock which cooled into what we now call Moldavite.

How can I tell if my Moldavite is real?

Real Moldavite has distinct bubbles and swirls when held up to light, feels light for its size, and has a wrinkled, naturally sculpted surface. Authentic pieces are never perfect or smooth. Always buy from reputable dealers, as fakes are common.

Why is Moldavite so expensive?

It's found only in a small area of the Czech Republic, with finite supply. Less than 275 tons exist, and mining yields decrease yearly. Growing popularity and limited availability drive prices up.

What color should Moldavite be?

Genuine Moldavite is forest green to olive green, sometimes appearing brownish-green. It's translucent when held up to light. If it's any other color, it's not real Moldavite.

Where can I find Moldavite?

Naturally, only in the Czech Republic. For purchase, seek certified gem dealers, established metaphysical shops, or reputable online sellers who provide authenticity certificates.

The specific gravity [?] for Moldavite is 2.32, its refractive index [?] is 1.48-1.54, and its double refraction [?] is N/A.

History

Born about 15 million years ago when a massive meteorite slammed into Germany, creating a dramatic splash of molten rock that cooled into these mysterious green gems. First found in the Moldau River valley (hence the name) in what's now the Czech Republic in 1787. Ancient cultures collected these "emeralds from the sky" for tools and talismans, not realizing they were literally holding pieces of a cosmic collision. Today, it's highly valued by collectors and becoming increasingly rare - which means plenty of fakes on the market.

Industrial Usages

Moldavite's rarity and unique origin limit its use to gemstones and collector's pieces. It has no industrial applications.