The vibrant green color of most moldavite comes from its iron content. High quality moldavite has a rich, forest green hue. Lower quality pieces tend to be paler green or olive green in color. Authentic moldavite also exhibits bubble-like formations throughout that give it a "sculpted" look.
In recent years, some vendors have been selling moldavite in different colors, including blue. Is naturally blue moldavite real or is it a fake? Here's an overview of the facts:
What Causes Blue Moldavite?
Genuine blue moldavite does not occur naturally. The blue color is caused by artificial irradiation or heat treatment. Some dealers will irradiate or heat moldavite to alter its original green color and make it more unique or valuable on the market.
Irradiated Blue Moldavite
One way blue moldavite is made is by exposing the stone to radiation. This causes structural changes at the atomic level that can turn the stone blue or blue-green. Irradiated moldavite may exhibit an unnaturally bright, electric blue color. The color is not a true, natural blue.
Heat Treated Blue Moldavite
Another method used to create blue moldavite is prolonged heat treatment. Heating moldavite to high temperatures for an extended time period can alter its color toward blue, purple or grayish-blue tones. The results are more subtle than irradiation. Heat treated stones have a bluish overcast rather than vivid blue.
Signs of Treatment
There are a few signs that can help determine if a blue moldavite has been artificially altered:
- Bright blue color not found in nature
- Perfectly uniform blue color throughout
- Lack of natural imperfections like bubbles or inclusions
- Unnaturally smooth, even texture
- Dramatically different appearance from surrounding green moldavite pieces
In contrast, untreated moldavite shows variation in shades of green. It often has cloudiness, bubbles and a visible etched texture. If a moldavite looks suspiciously flawless, there's a good chance its color has been enhanced.
In short, naturally occurring blue moldavite does not exist. Any blue moldavite has been treated with irradiation or heat to modify its original green tektite color. This doesn't mean treated moldavite is "fake" – it's still genuine moldavite stone. However, buyers should be aware of treatments so as not to overpay for altered stones marketed as rare. When selecting moldavite, it's best to stick with pieces that display the classic natural green shades.
