Moldavite Gem Guide and Properties Chart

Moldavite is a silica-rich tektite. Tektites are a natural form of glass created as a result of a meteorite impact with the earth. Moldavite was discovered in the late 1700’s, near the Moldau River in what is now Czechia. The color of the stone is yellowish green to green, or brownish green and is due to aluminum and iron oxide impurities.

General Information

Classification
Optical Properties
Characteristic Physical Properties
Chemistry & Crystallography

Common Name

Moldavite

Species

Tektite

Transparency

Transparent - Translucent

Refractive Index

1.490 Tolerance: (+0.020/-0.010)

Optic Character

Optic Sign

Polariscope Reaction

Singly Refractive (SR) With ADR

Fluorescence

SWUV: Inert
LWUV: Inert

Pleochroism

None

Hardness

5-5.5

Streak

White

Specific Gravity

2.320-2.400 Typical:2.360

Toughness

Varies

Inclusions

Moldavite often has round and elongated gas bubbles, flow lines and a roiled, cloudy or turbid appearance.

Luster

Vitreous

Stability

Poor

Fracture

Conchoidal

Cleavage

None

Chemical Name

silica

Chemical Formula

SiO₂ (+A₂O₃)

Crystal System

Chemistry Classification

Mineraloid

Moldavite Colors

Green
Green
Green

Alternate Names

Bouteille Stone

Countries of Origin

Unknown; Czechia

History

The site of the meteorite impact that formed moldavite is believed to be the Ries crater in Bavaria, Germany, which is approximately 14.6 million years old.

Care

Normal, gentle care

More About Moldavite

Many people believe that moldavite is a stone of connectivity, joining the earth and the universe. Others think its mere presence can be life-altering. Historically, it is believed to be an amulet of good fortune, romantic harmony, and fertility, although many other powers are attributed to it. There's no scientific substantiation for the folkloric claims that ascribe powers to moldavite. What do we believe? We believe its lovely green color has the power to please.