Moldavite Translucent Green Tektite – Genuine Impact Glass from Czech Republic

Authentic Moldavite Tektite – Translucent Green Impact Glass from the Czech Republic

This stunning Moldavite, a translucent green tektite, is a genuine specimen from the Czech Republic, formed by a cataclysmic meteorite impact approximately 15 million years ago during the Middle Miocene epoch. Moldavite is a unique natural glass created when a massive meteorite struck the Earth’s surface, melting terrestrial rock and ejecting it into the atmosphere, where it cooled rapidly into the aerodynamic, glassy forms we find today.

Every specimen we offer is 100% genuine and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photograph shows the exact Moldavite you will receive, displayed beside a 1 cm scale cube for accurate size reference. Please see the photo for full sizing details.

Geological Formation and Origin

Moldavite belongs to the rare family of natural impact glasses known as tektites. Its formation is linked to the Ries Crater event in present-day southern Germany, caused by the impact of a large stony meteorite around 14.7–15 million years ago. The immense energy released by this impact—equivalent to several million atomic bombs—instantly melted the surrounding sediments and silicate-rich rocks. These molten materials were thrown high into the atmosphere, where they cooled while airborne before raining down over what is now southern Bohemia and Moravia in the Czech Republic.

The resulting strewn field produced Moldavite, named after the Moldau River (Vltava) region where it was first discovered. It is found primarily in deposits near České Budějovice, Týn nad Vltavou, and Besednice, and is prized for its vibrant green coloration, natural sculpted forms, and glassy translucence.

Physical and Mineralogical Characteristics

Moldavite is composed primarily of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) with aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃), trace amounts of iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium, and a unique absence of water content compared to volcanic glasses. This lack of hydration is one of the defining features distinguishing tektites from terrestrial glasses.

This specimen exhibits a beautiful bottle-green to olive-green hue, with delicate bubble inclusions and subtle flow structures visible under magnification—features formed during its rapid solidification in the upper atmosphere. The natural surface texture, often described as sculpted or pitted, results from aeolian weathering and natural etching processes that occurred during its long burial in sandy sediments.

Its translucency under light makes Moldavite particularly appealing for both collectors and lapidary artists, as it glows with a striking internal luminosity when illuminated.

Scientific Significance and Classification

Moldavite is scientifically classified as a tektite, belonging to the Central European Strewn Field, which includes deposits from Bohemia and Moravia (Czech Republic) and small parts of Austria and Germany. Within the tektite family, it is distinguished by its green coloration, lower density, and high silica content.

The meteorite impact responsible for Moldavite formation is associated with the Nördlinger Ries Crater, measuring approximately 24 km in diameter. Geological and isotopic studies confirm that Moldavite originated from local terrestrial sediments fused by impact energy, not from extraterrestrial material itself—though the impact event was the initiating cause.

Moldavite specimens are valued by geologists and collectors alike for their role in understanding impact processes, shock metamorphism, and planetary geology. Each piece represents a natural fusion of celestial and terrestrial forces—a literal product of Earth meeting the cosmos.

Cultural and Collectable Value

Moldavite has been revered for centuries for its extraordinary beauty and rarity. Archaeological discoveries show that it was used as a tool and ornament by early humans as far back as the Palaeolithic period, with carved and polished pieces found at ancient sites. In modern times, Moldavite is also prized as a gemstone and a collector’s treasure, sought after for its unique origin, green brilliance, and association with meteorite impacts.

Collectors value Moldavite not only for its aesthetic and metaphysical qualities but also for its scientific authenticity—each specimen is a fragment of a cosmic event that forever altered part of the Earth’s surface.

Authenticity and Presentation

All of our specimens are 100% genuine and authenticated Moldavite tektites, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity verifying their origin and classification. The photograph shows the exact Moldavite you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube for accurate measurement—please refer to the photo for full sizing details.

This exceptional translucent green Moldavite from the Czech Republic is a perfect addition to any meteorite, fossil, or mineral collection, embodying the rare beauty of an object born from the collision between Earth and the cosmos.