However, moldavite was first described scientifically as "chrysolite" in 1787. Moldavites have even been found inside a cave in Austria and at locations beyond the strewn field, indicating prehistoric people collected and traded these pieces. Since prehistoric times, people have used many varieties of tektites, including moldavites, for ornamentation, tools, and religious purposes. Moldavites formed in the strewn field of the impact, at distances up to 280 miles from the crater. Only the natural glass formed by the meteorite impact at Nördlinger Ries in Germany, about 15 million years ago, can be called moldavite. Moldavites are a type of tektite, natural glass formed by the melting and cooling of silica sand or rock ejected into the atmosphere after a meteorite impact. Moldavite specimens on display at the Muzeum Vltavínů (Moldavite Museum) in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic. Photo courtesy of and William Bunch Auctions & Appraisals. 14k yellow gold pin with a faceted and carved moldavite. Well-cut and polished moldavites are certainly worth the higher prices they can command. Poorly cut gems look very dull compared to custom-cut ones.
On the other hand, a bubble breaking on the crown side would be considered a significant blemish and would greatly reduce the gem’s value. If a bubble breaches the surface on the pavilion side, it will have a minimal effect on value, based on its visibility. Faceting a moldavite without one of these inclusions breaking the surface poses a great challenge to gem cutters. Cut quality plays the greatest role in the value of these gems.īubble inclusions are common and numerous in moldavites. Lapidaries have also faceted, cabbed, and carved this material as curiosities. The arms radiate from a central point, “like a droplet of water after it hits a solid object.” 3.1 x 2.7 x 2.0 cm, Bohemia, Czech Republic.
Formed from the molten debris of a meteorite impact, it cooled into this shape. Although this moldavite specimen looks crystalline, it has an amorphous structure, like all glass. The value of these rough specimens depends greatly on their shape, size, and visual appeal. Moldavites are prized as “raw stones” for jewelry or as display pieces. Moldavite’s connection to a prehistoric meteorite impact also adds another level of intrigue. While moldavite is primarily a collectors gem, “New Age” interest in the so-called metaphysical properties of gemstones has boosted its availability and appeal to consumers.
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