If you’re in the market for moldavite, you’ve probably seen some impressive specimens online – deep green, glossy, and often very large. But with the recent surge in popularity of this rare gemstone, there has also been an influx of fake moldavite on the market.
So how can you tell if a piece of moldavite is the real deal?
In this article, we’ll go over 7 signs that you’re looking at a fake moldavite and where you can find authentic moldavite for sale.
Real vs Fake Moldavite: What’s the Difference?
People have been using real moldavite for centuries to help them connect with otherworldly energies. It has a wide range of benefits, from enhancing psychic abilities to aiding in meditation and spiritual growth. This powerful stone is also said to help with manifestation, creativity, and emotional healing.
However, with the recent popularity of moldavite, there has been an influx of fake stones on the market. These fakes are often made from cheaper materials like glass or even plastic. They’re usually mass-produced in factories and sold for a fraction of the price of real moldavite.
Compared to the real thing, fake moldavite doesn’t provide any of the benefits that people have come to expect from this powerful stone.
History of Moldavite
The origin of moldavite is the result of a meteorite impact that took place around 15 million years ago in an area that is now the Czech Republic. Pieces of moldavite have been found in neighboring countries like Austria, Germany, and Hungary, but the vast majority come from the Moldau River Valley in the Czech Republic.
Due to its rarity and unique origins, moldavite is highly coveted by gemstone collectors and anyone interested in working with its powerful energies. And because of this demand, there has been an influx of fake moldavite on the market.
7 Ways to Spot Fake Moldavite
When you’re looking at a piece of moldavite, there are a few things you can check to see if it’s the real deal. Here are 7 signs that you’re looking at a fake:
1. The Color
One of the easiest ways to tell if moldavite is real or fake is by looking at the color. Real moldavite is usually deep green, but can also be olive, yellow-green, or even brown. Fake moldavite, on the other hand, is often a bright, neon green. If the color is too perfect or uniform, it’s likely a fake.
2. The Clarity
Another way to tell if moldavite is real or fake is by looking at the clarity. Real moldavite is often opaque or has inclusions, which are small bits of foreign material that become trapped during the stone’s formation. Fake moldavite, on the other hand, is often completely clear or has very few inclusions.
3. The Texture
Real moldavite usually has a rough or pitted surface, while fake moldavite is often smooth and glossy. If you’re able to run your fingers along the surface of the stone and it feels completely smooth, there’s a good chance it’s a fake.
4. The Weight
Real moldavite is usually heavier than fake moldavite because it has a higher density. So, if you’re holding two pieces of moldavite that seem to be the same size but one is much lighter than the other, the lighter one is likely a fake.
5. The Bubbles
One of the most characteristic features of moldavite is the presence of bubbles. These are caused by gas pockets that formed during the stone’s formation. Fake moldavite often has larger, more uniform bubbles that are evenly spaced out. Real moldavite, on the other hand, usually has smaller bubbles that are more random in shape and distribution.
6. Appears Worn
Because moldavite is a natural stone that has been in the ground for millions of years, it often has a worn or weathered appearance. You should expect it to look a little bit like sea glass that has been tumbled in the sand. If it looks too new or perfect, it’s probably a fake.
7. The Price
Finally, one of the surest ways to tell if moldavite is real or fake is by looking at the price. Real moldavite is quite rare and, as a result, can be quite expensive. If you’re seeing pieces of moldavite being sold for very cheap prices, there’s a good chance they’re fakes.
Where to Buy Real Moldavite
Buying real moldavite can be tricky because there are so many fakes on the market. But if you know what to look for, it’s possible to find reputable dealers who sell authentic moldavite.
One of the best ways to find real moldavite is to buy from a dealer who specializes in meteorites and impact-related materials. These dealers are more likely to have a good understanding of the science behind moldavite and can help you spot a fake.
I’ve purchased many crystals from reputable dealers over the years. I’ve found Inner Vision Crystals to have the largest selection of crystals and their prices are very fair. They were featured on the History Channel Show “Ancient Aliens” and specialize in Moldavite, Phenakite, Herkimer Diamonds & Lemurian Crystals.
IVC only sells online and doesn’t have a retail store. You can visit their website here: https://www.innervisioncrystals.net/
If you prefer buying in person, try visiting your nearest gem and mineral show. These shows are typically held once or twice a year and feature dealers from all over the world. This is a great way to see a wide variety of moldavite in person and get a feel for what you like.
You can find the local gem and mineral show schedule here: https://www.rockandmineralshows.com/State/Index?categoryName=mineral-shows
Just remember to be cautious when buying moldavite (or any crystal for that matter) and only buy from reputable dealers. With a little bit of knowledge and effort, it’s possible to find real moldavite and avoid being scammed.
Where to Buy Fake Moldavite
Real moldavite is quite rare and, as a result, can be quite expensive. Some people might just be looking for a cheaper alternative that has a similar appearance. There’s nothing wrong with that and, in fact, fake moldavite can be quite pretty.
Finding fakes is usually much easier than finding the real thing. You can find many fake moldavites being sold on sites such as eBay and Etsy. Almost none of the listings will admit or state that the crystals are fake, so you should just assume that they are.
Just remember that fake crystals aren’t the same as real crystals. They might have a similar appearance, but they won’t have the same energy or properties.
Final Thoughts
Finding real moldavite can be tricky, but it’s definitely possible if you know what to look for. The tips I mentioned above have worked well for me in the past but aren’t guaranteed to spot every fake.
The best advice I can give to anyone looking for real moldavite is to buy from a dealer with an established shop and a good reputation. Try to avoid buying from sites such as eBay and Etsy. Most of the listings there are for fake moldavite.
If you want to buy fake moldavite, that’s fine too. It makes for beautiful jewelry and can be much cheaper than the real thing. Just remember that fake moldavite won’t have the same properties or energy as the real thing.
Do you have any tips for spotting fake moldavite? Let us know in the comments below!
No Comments