Moldavites (Vltavines) , unique Czech tektites, are a fascinating phenomenon of the natural world. They are not only beautiful, but also carry a rich history and scientific value. This article attempts to unravel the mystery of moldavites, their origin, the history of their findings, different species and localities, and introduces some interesting facts related to them.
1) Origin
Tectites are formed under extreme meteorite impact conditions, when high temperature and pressure cause rocks to melt and then cool in the air or on the Earth's surface. This process leads to the formation of glassy material, in the case of moldavites, with a characteristic green to brown colour and a very jagged texture. The volcanics were formed approximately 15 million years ago as a result of a meteorite impact in what is now Germany - today's Ries crater.
2) History of the finds
The first records of woldavines date back hundreds of years ago, when they were thought to be a special type of agate or the products of volcanic activity. It was only in the 18th and 19th centuries that they were understood to be of cosmic origin. In the Czech Republic, moldavites are known mainly from southern Bohemia, where they were and are found in river alluvium, especially in the Vltava River, from which their name comes. However, they can also be found in fields or deep underground.
3) Different species and locations
Moldavites range in shape and size from tiny beads to larger pieces weighing several tens of grams. Their aerodynamic shapes are specific, indicating that they were formed by movement in the atmosphere.
Besednice, Bohunice, Dobrkovka Lhotka, Dolní Chrášt'any, Malovice, Nesměň, Nová Hospoda, Slavče and others are the most famous sites of vltavín.
4) Attractions
One of the most interesting properties of moldavites is their ability to retain specific chemical and physical properties when they hit the Earth, allowing scientists to study conditions millions of years ago. However, the beauty of woltawins makes them a particularly popular collector's item. In the Czech Republic, there are exchanges and exhibitions dedicated to these unique objects.
Moldavites are not only a natural phenomenon, but also a testimony to the dynamic history of our planet.