moldavite: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (C2)Specialized (Technical/Scientific, Metaphysical, Collecting)
Quick answer
What does “moldavite” mean?
A rare, natural green glass formed from meteorite impacts.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A rare, natural green glass formed from meteorite impacts.
A tektite (a type of natural glass created by extraterrestrial impact) found primarily in the Czech Republic, prized in jewelry, crystal healing, and by collectors.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or spelling. Pronunciation differs (see IPA).
Connotations
Identical in both regions, primarily as a geological specimen or a 'crystal' for alternative practices.
Frequency
Equally rare and specialized in both dialects.
Grammar
How to Use “moldavite” in a Sentence
[Moldavite] is found in [location].[Someone] owns a [piece/example] of [moldavite].[Moldavite] is prized for its [properties].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in niche e-commerce and auction descriptions for gemstones and metaphysical supplies. e.g., 'The lot features a certified Moldavite specimen.'
Academic
Used in geology, planetary science, and archaeology papers discussing impact events and tektite distribution. e.g., 'The Moldavite strewn field is linked to the Ries crater impact.'
Everyday
Virtually unused in general conversation. May appear in discussions about jewelry, crystals, or unusual collectibles.
Technical
Precise term in mineralogy and gemology for a specific type of impact-formed glass silicate with a known chemical and isotopic signature.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “moldavite”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “moldavite”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “moldavite”
- Misspelling as 'moldivite', 'moldivate', or 'moldovite'.
- Using it as a countable plural without a quantifier (e.g., 'I have moldavites' is less common than 'I have pieces of moldavite').
- Incorrectly capitalizing it as a proper noun outside of the start of a sentence.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is a genuine natural glass (a tektite) formed by a meteorite impact. It is classified as a gemstone for jewelry purposes due to its colour and rarity.
Almost all genuine moldavite is found in areas of the Czech Republic (Bohemia and Moravia). Similar tektites exist elsewhere but have different names (e.g., australites).
It is rare, finite (no longer being formed), and demand is high from both collectors and the metaphysical community, often outpacing the limited supply.
In metaphysical circles, some users report a tingling or warming sensation when holding it. Physically, raw moldavite has a distinctive rough, sculpted texture unlike typical polished glass.
A rare, natural green glass formed from meteorite impacts.
Moldavite is usually specialized (technical/scientific, metaphysical, collecting) in register.
Moldavite: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɒldəvaɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmoʊldəvaɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MOLD growing on a VINE that turns to glass from a METEORITE impact. Mold-a-vite.
Conceptual Metaphor
SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION IS A METEORIC IMPACT (in metaphysical contexts).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary origin of moldavite?