gemstone

Moldavite

Tektite (Natural Silicate Glass)

Hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, characteristic bottle-green to olive-green color, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure with no cleavage, specific gravity around 2.32 to 2.38, often featuring distinctive surface textures like wrinkles, pits, and gas bubbles.

Identified July 31, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed approximately 15 million years ago by the impact of a large meteorite in the Nördlinger Ries crater region of present-day Germany, resulting in the fusion of extraterrestrial and terrestrial rock.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in high-end jewelry (often wire-wrapped like the specimen shown), as well as by crystal collectors and spiritual practitioners.

Geological facts

Moldavite is one of the rarest minerals on Earth, rarer than diamonds, and is prized for its unique cosmic origin and intense metaphysical reputation.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinct deep green translucent color and characteristic pitted, sculpted surface texture. Found mainly in the Czech Republic along the Vltava (Moldau) River basin.