Moldavite
Moldavite (Tektite group) · Collector Mineral / Tektite
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline material)
Mineral Group
Tektite (Natural Glass class)
Chemical Formula
SiO2(+Al2O3) Glassy Silica with Potassium and Calcium oxides
Formation Process
Meteoritic (Formed by the heat of a meteorite impact roughly 15 million years ago)
About This Crystal
A translucent to semi-opaque olive-green to forest-green natural glass. It features a characteristic sculpted, pitted, and aerodynamic surface texture resulting from flight through the atmosphere and terrestrial etching.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Olive green; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.32–2.40; Fluorescence: None.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.48–1.54; Isotropic (Singly refractive); No pleochroism or dispersion; Characteristic bubble and 'lechatelierite' wire-like inclusions.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Moldau River Valley, Czech Republic (Bohemian and Moravian fields)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 5.5–7.0; Brittle tenacity; Similar to man-made glass in durability; Sensitive to sudden temperature changes.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning. Use warm soapy water and a soft brush. Store separately to prevent scratching as it is softer than quartz.
Rarity & Value
Rare (Limited geographic occurrence); Value is high for large, well-textured specimens; Frequently imitated by green man-made glass.
Special Characteristics
Aerodynamic sculpting, lechatelierite (high-temperature silica glass) inclusions, and unique worm-like flow lines under magnification.
Lore & History
Traditionally associated with the heart chakra and sudden transformation. Historically used in the Neolithic period for tools and later as a good-luck talisman in European folklore.