tektite
Moldavite
Tektite (Impact Glass), ~80% SiO2 + Al2O3
Hardness: 5.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Bottle-green, olive green, or brownish-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline glass); Specific Gravity: 2.27–2.40.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Bottle-green, olive green, or brownish-green
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Bottle-green, olive green, or brownish-green; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline glass); Specific Gravity: 2.27–2.40.
Formation & geological history
Formed approximately 14.7 million years ago (Miocene) during a meteorite impact in the Nördlinger Ries crater in southern Germany. The heat and pressure liquified terrestrial rock, which was ejected into the atmosphere and solidified while falling back to Earth in what is now the Czech Republic.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry (as gemstones), as a collectible mineral specimen, and extensively in metaphysical or spiritual practices.
Geological facts
Moldavite is the only tektite of gemstone quality. Unlike man-made glass, it contains characteristic 'Lechatelierite' (high-temperature fused silica) inclusions and elongated bubbles that help distinguish it from fakes.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its unique pitted/wrinkled 'sculpted' surface (aerodynamic etching) and distinct translucent green color. It is almost exclusively found in the Bohemian and Moravian regions of the Czech Republic.
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