mineral
Moldavite (rough fragment)
Natural impact glass, chiefly SiO₂ with Al₂O₃ and trace oxides; tektite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall, dark olive-green fragment with a glassy luster; hardness about 5.5–6.5 Mohs, amorphous (no crystal structure), and no cleavage. Its rough, irregular surface and green translucence are consistent with moldavite, though the image alone cannot confirm identity.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Moldavite (rough fragment) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Small, dark olive-green fragment with a glassy luster; hardness about 5.5–6.5 Mohs, amorphous (no crystal structure), and no cleavage. Its rough, irregular surface and green translucence are consistent with moldavite, though the image alone cannot confirm identity.
Formation & geological history
Formed about 14.8 million years ago when the Ries impact in present-day Germany melted and ejected terrestrial material that cooled into glass. Most specimens are found in sediments across the Czech Republic.
Uses & applications
Collected as a tektite and used in jewelry; larger, verified pieces are more desirable than tiny fragments.
Geological facts
Moldavite is an impact glass, not a crystalline mineral, and belongs to the tektite family.
Field identification & locations
Look for natural sculpted or pitted surfaces, olive-green color, and glassy fracture; compare with verified material because imitations are common. Typical small fragments may sell for roughly $5–$30, depending on weight and authenticity.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary