Moldavite

Scientific Name: Tektite

Group: Extraplanetary rock

Chemical composition: Contains Beryllium-10 isotope common to known meteorites

Colors:

Hardness:

Principal Sources: Czech Republic

Special Notes: Moldevite is a form of tektite colored olive-green or dull greenish vitreous formed by a meteorite impact. The total amount of moldavite scattered around the world is estimated at 275 tons. There are now only four moldavite mines that are in full operation in the Czech Republic. It is predicted that in less than ten years from now commercial moldavite mining will come to an end. After this time, there will be virtually no appreciable amount of gem-grade moldavite left in the ground.