mineral

Moldavite

Tektite (Amorphous Silica, SiO2 + Al2O3)

Hardness: 5.5-7.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Forest green, olive green, or teal green; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline glass); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.40. Known for its 'wrinkled' or aerodynamically sculpted surface texture.

Hardness: 5
Color: Forest green, olive green, or teal green
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed approximately 15 million years ago by the impact of a large meteorite in southern Germany (Nördlinger Ries crater). The impact melted the terrestrial rock and ejected it into the atmosphere, where it cooled into glass while falling back to Earth.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, for collectors of rare minerals, and in metaphysical practices where it is highly sought after for its perceived high-frequency energy.

Geological facts

Moldavite is a rare type of tektite found only in the Czech Republic. It is often referred to as 'The Only Alien Gemstone on Earth' because its formation was caused by an extraterrestrial event. It is one of the rarest minerals due to its limited geographic range.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its translucent green color when held to light, unique surface pitting/sculpting (besednice), and the presence of lechatelierite (melted quartz) bubbles under magnification. Found in the Vltava River basin of the Czech Republic. Collectors should beware of numerous 'slime green' glass fakes from Southeast Asia.