Often called the "Bottle Stone", Moldavite is a precious stone with an olive green color. It belongs to the group of Tektite minerals, which are described as natural glass stones. With a beautiful coloration and vibrant luster, many people believe that Moldavite is of extraterrestrial origin. Besides its unique appearance, Moldavite is best known for its unusual origin; it is believed that the stone formed from condensed rock vapors shortly after the impact of a meteorite thousands of years ago.
A few years ago, Moldavite was thought to be an artificial stone. After researchers discovered that the stone was natural, it was then believed to be a type of volcanic obsidian glass. Finally, it was revealed that the stone was a member of the Tektite family and was given the name "chysolites". A few years later, the gem was renamed "Moldavite", after the place where it was discovered - Moldauthein. In this article, we explore Moldavite in more detail.
How to identify Moldavite?
For qualified professionals, Moldavite is relatively easy to identify. The stone's chemical composition contains aluminum oxide and silicon dioxide. The stone's hardness is quite high, with a value of 5 on the Mohs scale. Its density is measured at 2.3. Professionals can also identify Moldavite by its refractive index; similar to that of volcanic glass Obsidian, the index can be easily measured with the right equipment. For an untrained eye, identifying Moldavite is a bit more challenging. In this case, the best way to identify the stone is by its glass-like appearance and olive green color. Sometimes specimens may have a slightly darker or lighter shade of green. When cut and polished, the stone exhibits a strong luster, usually accompanied by a rough surface.
Moldavite can sometimes be confused with other minerals with a similar appearance. This natural glass stone is closely related to volcanic glass, obsidian. Popular for gemstone jewelry, obsidian has various commercial names such as "Snowflake Obsidian" and "Gold-Sheen Obsidian". For professionals, the differences between Moldavite and Obsidian are clear; however, to an untrained eye, the two may appear almost identical.
Different colors and types of Moldavite
Although Moldavite is always green in color, the exact shade of the specimen may vary. A variety of green shades is common, ranging from pale green to deep forest green. Sometimes specimens may appear in a brownish-green, but they are considered less desirable. On average, the most desirable color of Moldavite is a medium green without a brown tint.
The appearance of Moldavite can vary from transparent to opaque. The most valuable specimens are almost entirely transparent. Stones of this nature are not only beautiful, they are also extremely rare; hence they command a high price. On average, most Moldavite in the gemstone market is opaque with slight translucency. Completely transparent specimens are called "museum quality", while everything else is considered "ordinary quality". Museum quality Moldavite also exhibits a unique fern-like pattern. Ordinary quality specimens are usually darker in color, and their surface often appears rough and pitted. Unlike other gemstones, Moldavite is rarely treated or enhanced by heat. However, the stone is sometimes fused with other varieties of borosilicate glass to enhance its appearance.
Where is Moldavite found?
As mentioned earlier, the name "Moldavite" comes from "Moldauthein", a town in the Czech Republic where the stone was first discovered. Today, Moldavite is found in various locations around the world. Notable sources include Germany, Austria, Western Moravia, and South and Northwest Bohemia. Currently, 99% of Moldavite is believed to come from South Bohemia and the remaining 1% from Western Moravia. While the stone is sometimes found in Germany and Austria, these deposits are generally minimal.
Today, the estimated amount of Moldavite in the world is around 275 tons. A few years ago, many Moldavite mines were active throughout the Czech Republic, all producing the stone on a commercial scale. Today, only one mine is still operational. Experts have estimated that all gem-quality specimens will have disappeared within the next ten years.
Healing properties of Moldavite
Legend suggests that Moldavite was first used to bring luck to those who saw it. Today, many people still consider the gemstone to be a "good luck charm". Thought to bring peace and harmony in relationships, the stone is also popular among married couples. Additionally, Moldavite is believed to promote fertility and alleviate unpleasant symptoms associated with pregnancy; in this regard, a good quality piece of Moldavite can be beneficial to individuals trying to conceive or in their first trimester of pregnancy. The olive green stone is said to help heal a range of other physical ailments as well. Specifically, the gem is believed to relieve asthma, gout, and various allergies. People suffering from the flu or a cold can also use Moldavite to alleviate their symptoms.
In summary
Moldavite glass is popular worldwide. Today, the most notable deposits of this stone are found in South Bohemia, although specimens are also found in Western Moravia, Germany, and Austria. Appreciated for its vibrant green color and glass-like appearance, good quality Moldavite is often used in designer jewelry. Whether you hope to use the stone for its healing crystal benefits or are looking for a beautiful addition to your jewelry collection, purchase a piece of good quality Moldavite to reap the rewards.