Moldavite
Moldavite (Tektite) · Collector Mineral / Tektite Material
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline/Glassy)
Mineral Group
Tektite (Natural Glass)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 + Al2O3 (+ K2O, FeO, MgO)
Formation Process
Meteoritic impact; formed from fused terrestrial silica ejected during a hypervelocity impact approximately 14.8 million years ago.
About This Crystal
Highly vesicular and aerodynamically sculpted natural glass. Typically forest green to olive green with a pitted, wrinkled, or 'lechatelierite' inclusion texture. Lustre is vitreous to dull on weathered surfaces.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Bottle green to brownish-green; Streak: White; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.27–2.40; Fluorescence: None; Notable for its pitted surface and internal bubbles.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.48–1.54 (Singly Refractive); Birefringence: None; Pleochroism: None; Often contains flow lines and worm-like lechatelierite inclusions.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Moldau River valley, Czech Republic (Bohemians and Moravian regions)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 5.5–7.0; Brittle tenacity; sensitive to sudden temperature changes and physical impact.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning. Store separately from harder stones like quartz or topaz to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Rare and finite; value is driven by size (weight in grams), color saturation, and the complexity of the aerodynamic 'sculpting' or spikes. Many fakes exist on the market.
Special Characteristics
Displays unique aerodynamic sculpting features like pits and grooves; contains characteristic elongated bubbles and lechatelierite (high-temp fused silica wires).
Lore & History
Historically used as amulets in the Neolithic period. Metaphysically associated with the Heart and Third Eye chakras; traditionally believed to be a stone of rapid transformation and cosmic connection.