Moldavite vs Obsidian
Moldavite and Obsidian are both popular gemstones that share a similar color palette. Moldavite has a Mohs hardness of 5.5 compared to Obsidian at 5.0, making Moldavite the more durable option. Moldavite is typically budget-friendly while Obsidian is budget-friendly.
| Property | Moldavite | Obsidian |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Semi-Precious Gems | Semi-Precious Gems |
| Primary Color | various | black |
| Mohs Hardness | 5.5 | 5.0–5.5 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.32 | 2.35 |
| Refractive Index | 1.48 | 1.45 |
| Crystal System | Amorphous | Amorphous |
| Luster | Vitreous | Vitreous |
| Chemical Formula | — | — |
| Price Tier | Budget (< $50/ct) | Budget (< $50/ct) |
| Daily Wear | No | No |
Key Differences
- ◆ {'gem_a': '5.5', 'gem_b': '5.0', 'property': 'Hardness (Mohs)'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'Amorphous', 'gem_b': 'Amorphous', 'property': 'Crystal System'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': '2.32', 'gem_b': '2.35', 'property': 'Specific Gravity'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': '1.48', 'gem_b': '1.45', 'property': 'Refractive Index'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'Vitreous', 'gem_b': 'Vitreous', 'property': 'Luster'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'budget', 'gem_b': 'budget', 'property': 'Price Range'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'No', 'gem_b': 'No', 'property': 'Daily Wear'}
When to choose Moldavite
Choose Moldavite when you want superior hardness and scratch resistance, and higher brilliance and light performance. It's ideal for collector specimens and carefully worn jewelry.
When to choose Obsidian
Choose Obsidian when you want its unique color and character. It's ideal for collector specimens and carefully worn jewelry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is harder, Moldavite or Obsidian?
Moldavite is harder at 5.5 on the Mohs scale, compared to Obsidian at 5.0-5.5. This makes Moldavite more resistant to scratching. Moldavite requires more careful handling and is not ideal for daily wear, while obsidian requires more careful handling and is not ideal for daily wear.
Is Moldavite more expensive than Obsidian?
Moldavite and Obsidian are in a similar price range, both classified as budget-friendly (under $50/ct). Moldavite typically ranges budget-friendly (under $50/ct), while Obsidian ranges budget-friendly (under $50/ct).
Should I choose Moldavite or Obsidian for an engagement ring?
Neither Moldavite nor Obsidian is ideal for an engagement ring worn daily. Moldavite (5.5 Mohs) is the more durable of the two, while Obsidian (5.0-5.5 Mohs) is softer. If you choose either, consider a protective setting like a bezel.
How can I tell Moldavite and Obsidian apart?
There are several visual cues: Moldavite typically appears various while Obsidian is black. A gemologist can confirm identification using refractive index testing.
Why do Moldavite and Obsidian look similar?
Moldavite and Obsidian look similar because both can show overlapping colors — Moldavite is various and Obsidian is black.