Curious about the disparities separating a fragment of tektite and a fragment of moldavite? Within this comprehensive Twirl Weddings compendium, I shall delve into the nuances and resemblances betwixt tektites and moldavite crystals. Furthermore, I shall provide elucidation on queries such as:
- What prompts moldavite’s widespread acclaim?
- Do tektites originate from the vast expanse of outer space?
- What indicators can assist in discerning an imitation moldavite?
Main Differences between Tektite and Moldavite
- Tektite, a variant of organic glass, stands distinct from moldavite, which falls under the category of tektites.
- The majority of black tektites and other prevalent hues are typically authentic, unlike moldavite, which faces a proliferation of counterfeit products in the market.
- Tektites manifest in an assortment of types and shades, whereas moldavite predominantly displays a captivating shade of green.
- Trace elements like iron, magnesium, or manganese may be present in tektites, whereas moldavite boasts a notable concentration of magnesium.
What are Tektites?
A tektite represents a unique phenomenon in nature, where natural glass is born through the dramatic forces of meteorite impacts on our planet’s surface. These extraordinary glass formations lack any discernible crystal structure, much like other forms of naturally occurring glass. As they take shape, tektites can manifest in a multitude of mesmerizing forms, including tear-like drops, spherical bodies, flat discs, and even peculiar dumbbell shapes.
When a meteorite collides with the Earth, an intense combination of heat and pressure engulfs the surrounding rocks and minerals. This formidable energy transforms them into molten rock, which is swiftly propelled into the air before reaching the ground.
During this rapid ascent, the molten fragments cool down abruptly, resulting in a scattering of glassy shapes and droplets that are strewn across diverse locations, forming what we call a strewn field.
In the quest for knowledge, scientists continue to meticulously examine tektite samples and delve into their enigmatic origins, aiming to unravel their mysteries further. While certain aspects still elude our complete understanding, there are deductions we can assert with confidence. Similar uncertainties and deductions can also be applied to the captivating realms of pink diamonds and their scarlet counterparts.
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Exploring the Locations of Tektite Discoveries
Tektites can be discovered in numerous regions worldwide, arising from the occurrence of meteoric collisions. Ries Crater in Germany and the Chesapeake Bay Crater in the United States have notably yielded tektites. These intriguing glassy objects have originated and been excavated from various locations, encompassing Australia, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Germany, Laos, the Philippines, the Czech Republic, Thailand, and the United States.
Exploring the Characteristics of Tektites – An Insight into their Physical Properties
The majority of tektite fragments are of diminutive size. Tektites exhibit a wide array of hues, attributed to the presence of trace elements embedded in the rock and glass. The coloration of tektites is influenced by the incorporation of iron, manganese, and magnesium. The prevailing shades observed in tektites encompass:
- Onyx tektites
- Cocoa tektites
- Emerald tektites
- Slate tektites
Onyx tektites constitute the most prevalent type, formed as a consequence of their iron-rich composition. Emerald tektites, on the other hand, are exceedingly scarce and can be exclusively found in select regions of Australia and Southeast Asia. These tektites are distinguished by their captivating bottle green or olive green appearance, which draws considerable attention. The presence of magnesium accounts for their verdant coloration.
Cocoa tektites predominantly occur in Europe and the United States. Their distinct brown hue is a result of a substantial concentration of manganese. In contrast, slate tektites are relatively abundant and possess elevated levels of both iron and magnesium.
Distinct hues such as crimson, amber, and azure tektites have been unearthed, although their presence is notably scarce, and samples are typically discovered in minute quantities below the surface.
One would be hard-pressed to come across tektites in upscale jewelry establishments, thus many individuals disregard their potential for adornment. Unlike diamonds and precious stones, glass lacks the ability to mirror light in a similar manner. Tektites are frequently employed as talismans or fashioned into wire-wrapped pendants due to their reputed therapeutic attributes.
Exploring the Metaphysical Use of Tektite
Tektites possess a multitude of curative qualities and applications dating back millennia. Regarded as a “cosmic gem,” numerous attributes of tektites are intertwined with the celestial realm and establishing a link to the ethereal domain. The ensuing are a few of the remedial aspects affiliated with tektites:
- Augmenter of vitality and stamina
- Heighten perception of spirituality
- Foster ingenuity and novel concepts
- Facilitate communion with the transcendent realm and spiritual mentors
- Safeguard against malevolent entities
- Encourage voyages through the astral plane
- Facilitate the occurrence of vivid and conscious dreams
What is the Price Range of Tektites?
Despite their scarcity and limited availability, tektites exhibit a broad spectrum of prices influenced by their rarity and distinct hues. Procuring faceted tektites is a rare occurrence, and navigating the commercial sphere reveals an abundance of counterfeit and replica specimens.
In contrast to diamonds and gemstones, tektites are typically not traded individually. Generally, tektite vendors offer either single units of tektite jewelry or assess them by weight in grams.
- Standard black tektites are priced at approximately $1-10 per gram.
- Green tektites, specifically moldavite, are valued at approximately $5-20 per gram.
- Brown tektites are estimated to range from $10-50 per gram.
- Exceptional specimens featuring rarer colors may command prices of $50-500 per gram, representing the epitome of quality.
What is Moldavite?
Moldavite stands out among the less common variants of tektites, belonging to the silica glass family. However, it falls short of the rarity observed in the blue, red, or yellow variations. Over the past half-decade, there has been an exponential surge in fascination with moldavite, primarily driven by the assertions made by numerous TikTok users regarding its purported healing properties.
Similar to tektites, moldavite lacks a crystalline arrangement and is predominantly comprised of silicon dioxide and aluminum oxide.
Moldavite Extraction Sites – Exploring Diverse Origins
Moldavite extraction occurs across various locations, with notable emphasis on the Czech Republic, where it is widely believed to have originated from a meteorite collision that occurred approximately 15 million years ago. Apart from the Czech Republic, significant moldavite discoveries have been unearthed in scattered regions, forming strewn fields that extend to:
- Germany
- United States
- Austria
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Poland
- Ivory Coast
- Philippines
Bohemian Moldavite
Unique and distinctive fragments of Bohemian moldavite emerge from the depths of southern Bohemia, where they have been unearthed following the powerful impact of the Ries Crater. Furthermore, numerous remnants of this extraordinary moldavite, originating from the same cataclysmic event, have been discovered in various scattered regions across western Moravia, Austria, and Germany.
Real Moldavite vs Fake Rough Moldavite
As the surge of curative assertions associated with moldavite intensified among TikTok enthusiasts, the desire for these somewhat scarce gemstones witnessed an exponential rise. Ordinarily, faceted glass holds minimal worth and fails to garner significant attention. However, the allure instigated by social media fads for these stones ignited a fervent demand within the market.
The abundance of counterfeit moldavites circulating in the market is quite remarkable. Simply typing “moldavite for sale” on Etsy inundates you with a deluge of fraudulent specimens. Differentiating between genuine moldavite and its counterfeit counterparts can be a challenging task. Furthermore, the inflated demand has led to escalated prices, adding to the complexity.
It becomes imperative to possess some form of authentication or acquire knowledge about the precise origin of your moldavite piece. Authentic moldavite is notably rarer and often appears in smaller fragments. Conversely, fake moldavite tends to exhibit a glossy, wet-like appearance and possesses more rounded shapes, whereas natural moldavite showcases an enchanting glassy spray-like texture.
Exploring the Physical Attributes of Moldavite
Moldavites possess several distinguishing features that set them apart from other varieties of tektites. The remarkable characteristic of moldavite lies in its unique bottle green hue, albeit fine-quality specimens often exhibit a more subdued dark green-brown shade, deviating from the pure green color. Notably, the presence of substantial iron content can result in some moldavites leaning towards a brownish tint.
Of all the moldavite variations, olive green specimens are considered the most exceptional and elusive. Additionally, moldavites displaying a yellow-green hue also hold rarity and considerable value. These particular colorations of moldavite are believed to possess heightened spiritual properties compared to other color variants. It is worth noting that the majority of olive green moldavite is predominantly found in the region of Southern Moravia.
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Due to its glass-like nature, moldavite is susceptible to scratches, earning it a rating of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, which renders it unsuitable for everyday use. However, occasional wearing of moldavite rings or similar items is acceptable, especially if they feature rough moldavite and are designed for low-impact jewelry. It is advisable to opt for moldavite pieces like necklaces and earrings rather than rings or bracelets to minimize the risk of damage.
Healing Properties of Moldavite
Moldavite, a renowned and widely sought-after celestial gem, is said to possess remarkable qualities that align with those of other tektites, along with some unique attributes. Embracing moldavite is believed to facilitate the following benefits for the user/wearer:
- Fostering profound metamorphosis and personal development
- Facilitating the exploration of elevated realms of consciousness
- Dissolving energy barriers and obstructions
- Enhancing vigor and endurance
- Mitigating allergic reactions
- Aiding respiratory ailments
- Reinvigorating the immune system
Please note that the effects of moldavite may vary for individuals, and it is advisable to seek professional guidance or personal experiences to understand its potential impact fully.
Cost of Moldavite
Modest-sized moldavite fragments commonly fall within the price range of $10 to $20 per piece. However, when it comes to larger, exceptional-quality specimens displaying rarer shades of green, the cost can escalate significantly, reaching several hundred or even thousands of dollars.
Final Thoughts – Tektite vs Moldavite
Tektite and moldavite emerge from celestial objects colliding with our planet. While moldavites are esteemed and sought-after tektites, they do not hold the title of the most uncommon. Although tektites generally lack significant demand, moldavite stands out due to viral social media videos espousing its reputed curative abilities.
Exercising caution becomes imperative when acquiring moldavite due to the abundance of counterfeit specimens saturating the market. It is essential to meticulously compare images of genuine and counterfeit moldavite accessible online to discern their contrasting attributes.
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Rarely are these stones transformed into meticulously cut gemstones; nevertheless, moldavites and tektites have been incorporated into jewelry designs over the course of many years. However, it is important to note that they are not typically found adorning the extravagant, opulent pieces you encounter in conventional stores!
IN THIS SERIES: How to Tell if Moldavite is Real | Tektite vs. Moldavite| Malachite vs. Moldavite
