meteorite
Moldavite
Tektite (Natural Silica Glass)
Hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, dark bottle-green to brownish-green color, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure (no cleavage), specific gravity of 2.32 to 2.38.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, dark bottle-green to brownish-green color, vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure (no cleavage), specific gravity of 2.32 to 2.38.
Formation & geological history
Formed approximately 15 million years ago by the impact of a giant meteorite with Earth, fusing extraterrestrial and terrestrial material under extreme heat and pressure in the Ries crater region of present-day southern Germany.
Uses & applications
Highly sought after by mineral collectors, used extensively in high-end jewelry (faceted or wire-wrapped), and valued in metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
Moldavite is a form of tektite, making it a unique impactite glass. Because of its scarcity and the restrictions on commercial mining in the Czech Republic, it has become one of the most counterfeited and highly valued stones in the gemstone market.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic deep, worm-like surface texturing (wrinkles, pits, and sculpture) and distinctive translucent green color when held to the light. Found primarily in the Bohemian and Moravian regions of the Czech Republic.
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