The Allure and Beauty of Collecting Genuine Moldavite Specimens

The Fascinating World of Moldavite Specimens

For those fascinated by crystals, gems, and metaphysical stones, moldavite specimens hold a special allure. Known as the "stone of transformation," moldavite is a fragile green tektite formed from meteorite impacts around 15 million years ago. Holding a piece of moldavite is like holding a piece of history from outer space!

Moldavite specimens are among the most prized in many rock and crystal collections. Their extraterrestrial origins and green hues make them stand out from more common stones. Let's explore what makes moldavite specimens so captivating for collectors.

Where Does Moldavite Come From?

The term "moldavite" comes from the Moldau River in the Czech Republic, where these tektites were first discovered. Tektites are natural glass formed from the high heat and pressure of meteorite impacts.

Scientists believe a large meteorite collision in central Europe around 15 million years ago formed the moldavite strewn field. This strewn field stretches across several countries including Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, and Poland.

Tektites like moldavite differ from normal terrestrial rocks. Their chemical composition closely matches terrestrial sediments but also shows traces of extraterrestrial material from the meteorite impact.

The Allure of Moldavite

What makes moldavite so prized by collectors? Several key factors contribute to its popularity:

• Extraterrestrial origins: Knowing you hold a piece of outer space in your hand is intriguing.
• Vibrant green colors: Moldavite has beautiful forest and olive green hues.
• Metaphysical properties: Moldavite is said to enhance psychic abilities and transformation.
• Rarity: Only 275 tons of moldavite have been found, making quality specimens rare.

In addition to its cosmic origins, moldavite also exhibits unique formations. The tektite formed as molten droplets during the meteorite impact before hardening as it cooled. This gives moldavite specimens fascinating shapes and textures.

The Different Grades of Moldavite

Like other collector stones, moldavite specimens are graded based on certain characteristics. The rarest and most valuable moldavite pieces are given higher grades. Key grading factors include:

• Color - Deeper greens are considered higher quality.
• Clarity - Clear, translucent pieces are preferred over opaque.
• Formation - Intricate or unusual shapes are more prized.
• Inclusions - Least inclusions indicates higher grade moldavite.

Most moldavite is classified into three main grades:

High Grade

The rarest and most valuable moldavite falls into the high grade category. High grade specimens feature rich green hues and exceptional clarity. They have few or no inclusions and exciting formations like swirls, bubbles, and etched patterns.

Medium Grade

Most moldavite on the market is medium grade. These specimens still exhibit nice color and clarity but have more inclusions than high grade. The formations may be less pronounced but still visually interesting.

Low Grade

Low grade is the most abundant and affordable moldavite grade. These pieces tend to be cloudier with a darker or murkier green color. They have more inclusions and simpler shapes than higher grade tumbles or points.

How to Find Genuine Moldavite

With natural moldavite being rare and valuable, fake moldavite products have flooded the market. Some sellers try to pass off glass or synthetic stones as real moldavite. Here are some tips for finding authentic moldavite specimens:

• Buy from reputable dealers who provide authentication.
• Inspect clarity, bubbles, color, and inclusions up close.
• Check for certified lab reports from gemological institutes.
• Learn to recognize artificial moldavite characteristics.
• Consider investing in calibration tools to test specimens.

Taking time to inspect and ask questions can help avoid spending money on counterfeit stones. An experienced metaphysical shop or dedicated moldavite seller is often the best source for guaranteed real specimens.

How Much Does Moldavite Cost?

Natural moldavite carries a steep price tag. High quality museum grade pieces can sell for $1,000 per carat or more. More common medium grade raw or tumbled stones usually sell for $100 to $300 per gram. Small low grade stones may cost as little as $20 to $60 per gram.

In addition to carat weight, factors like grading, clarity, formation, and color affect moldavite prices. Rarer stone shapes like moldavite drops, discs, or starbursts also command much higher prices. Patience is key to finding good moldavite deals for your budget.

Caring for Moldavite Specimens

Once you obtain moldavite for your collection, proper care is essential. As a fragile natural glass, moldavite needs gentle handling and storage:

• Avoid touching bare moldavite as skin oils can stain it.
• Store pieces carefully in soft cloth bags or acid-free paper.
• Protect moldavite from sharp blows that can cause cracks.
• Clean only with mild soap and very soft brush if needed.
• Keep high grade specimens in a display case or pouch.

With proper care, your moldavite collection will remain vibrant for decades or longer. Any reputable seller should provide detailed care instructions too.

The Joys of Moldavite Collecting

Building a moldavite collection offers adventure, rarity, metaphysical energy, and sheer cosmic beauty. From hunting for bargains to displaying your best pieces, moldavite ignites a passion in many crystal and gem enthusiasts.

By learning about proper grading, spotting fakes, finding trusted sellers, and providing excellent care, your moldavite collection can offer enjoyment for a lifetime. Let the vibrant green energies of these meteorite-borne stones from outer space infuse your life with transformative power!

FAQs

Where can I find authentic moldavite for sale?

Look for reputable metaphysical shops or moldavite specialists online that provide authentication documents. Always inspect pieces carefully and learn the properties of natural vs fake moldavite.

What is the rarest type of moldavite?

Disc and drop shaped moldavites are the most rare and valuable formations. Other rare varieties include moldavite crystals, teardrops, stars, and angel wings which can sell for thousands per carat.

How can I tell if my moldavite is real?

Real moldavite exhibits a vibrant green color, delicate swirled or bubbled texture, and a translucent to transparent clarity. Fake stones look dull, show few unique formations, and lack the intricate fern-like patterns inside.

What is the best way to clean moldavite?

Never use ultrasonic or harsh chemical cleaners on moldavite. The best way to clean it is using room temperature soapy water, a very soft brush, and gentle handling to avoid damaging the fragile stone.

How should I store my moldavite collection?

Wrap each piece in soft cloth or acid-free paper and store in a closed container. Never let moldavite stones touch directly as they can scratch each other. Display high grade specimens in a protected display case.