Guide to Moldavite Shapes

01How primary shapes are formed

Moldavite is a splash-form tektite that typically takes on a droplet shape. Molten moldavite was ejected into the sky by a meteorite impact in Germany and elongated as it flew at high speed through the air, forming a long tail behind the main body. To find out how far it traveled, read where moldavite is found.

Primary shapes are the most intact and originate from the original teardrop shape. They represent less than 1% of moldavite, as most of it shattered into fragments. They are prized for their symmetry and full appearance. The main types are: drops, discs, ellipsoids, spheres, and hourglasses.

02The five primary shapes

Drops (tears)

The original splash form from which almost all others derive. Thicker, rounder body, longer, thinner tail. Sizes from 1 g to over 70 g.

Discs

Formed from drops with a rounder, wider body. Characteristic: a flat, round body.

Ellipsoids

Derived from drops with a longer, oval body. Characteristic: a flat, oval body.

Spheres

From drops with smaller, rounder bodies. Characteristic: a ball shape.

Hourglasses

An exception: they form by rotating rapidly in a circle from molten states, stretching the central part. Thinner center, thicker ends. They are by far the rarest of the primary shapes.

03Partial primary shapes

These are broken but still recognizable primary shapes: a disc or ellipsoid can break in half to form a crescent; a drop can retain a long tail that forms a stick.

04Fragments (non-primary shapes)

Fragments make up over 99% of moldavite: pieces shattered upon impact with the ground, often difficult or impossible to trace back to their original shape. They remain unique and fascinating nonetheless.

For context on formation, also see what moldavite is.

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