Why Buy Moldavite in Český Krumlov?

Český Krumlov is located in the heart of the South Bohemian region. This is exactly where the meteor impact occurred. Most of the world's moldavite is mined just a short distance away. Buying here means you are close to the source. You will find a wider variety of shapes and sizes than anywhere else. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history of craftsmanship.

Local jewelers here have decades of experience with these stones. They understand the unique properties of vltavín, as locals call it. You can find everything from raw, jagged pieces to polished gems. There are also many unusual things to do in Český Krumlov while you shop. Choosing a reputable dealer ensures your investment is real. Always ask for a certificate of authenticity before you pay.

9 Spots for Authentic Moldavite in Český Krumlov

Here are the top locations to purchase your gemstone safely. These spots range from museums to high-end boutiques. Most are located within the historic center. You can easily visit several in one afternoon. Use this list to compare prices and styles before making a final choice.

• Best overall: Moldavite Museum Shop
• Best for traditional settings: Granát Turnov
• Best for raw stones: Vltavín Boutique Panská
• Best for budget finds: Graphite Mine Shop

1. Name: Moldavite Museum Shop Type: Museum Shop Why go: This is the most trusted source in the city. They offer a wide range of certified stones. You can see the Moldavite Museum interactive exhibits first to learn about the stone. Best for: Serious collectors and first-time buyers. Where: Panská Street, Old Town. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 500 CZK to 20,000+ CZK. Getting there: Walk 2 minutes from the main square. Tip: Check the museum displays to see what top-tier stones look like.
2. Name: Granát Turnov Latrán Type: Official State Jeweler Why go: This is a branch of the famous Czech state-owned company. They are known for Bohemian garnets but have excellent moldavite. Every piece comes with an official certificate. Best for: Traditional jewelry settings. Where: Latrán Street, near the castle. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: Located on the main path to the State Castle and Chateau. Tip: Look for pieces that combine moldavite with red garnets.
3. Name: Šperky Vltavíny Horní Type: Specialized Boutique Why go: This shop focuses almost exclusively on moldavite. The staff is very knowledgeable about the different mining locations. They offer unique, handcrafted silver and gold settings. Best for: Unique artistic designs. Where: Horní Street, near the Regional Museum. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 1,000 CZK and up. Getting there: Walk uphill from the main square. Tip: Ask which specific mine the stone came from.
4. Name: Aris Jewelry Type: Family Jeweler Why go: Aris has a long-standing reputation for honesty. They offer a more personal shopping experience. The selection includes both raw and faceted stones. Best for: Personalized service. Where: Svornosti Square (Main Square). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Competitive. Getting there: Right in the center of the Old Town. Tip: Use a magnifying glass to check for natural inclusions.
5. Name: Graphite Mine Gift Shop Type: Attraction Gift Shop Why go: If you take a graphite mine tour, visit their shop. They often have raw moldavite found during regional excavations. Prices can be slightly lower than in the town center. Best for: Raw, unpolished specimens. Where: Chvalšinská Street. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: 15-minute walk or short bus ride from the center. Tip: This is a great place for small, affordable gifts.
6. Name: Castle Souvenir Shop Type: Official Landmark Shop Why go: Located within the castle grounds, this shop is strictly regulated. They sell authentic items to tourists from all over the world. It is a convenient stop during your castle tour. Best for: Convenience. Where: Second Castle Courtyard. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Standard tourist pricing. Getting there: Follow the signs for the castle entrance. Tip: Double-check the certificate has a physical stamp.
7. Name: Antique Shop Latrán 15 Type: Antique Store Why go: You can sometimes find vintage moldavite jewelry here. These pieces often have historical charm and unique older cuts. It is perfect for those who dislike modern mass-produced styles. Best for: Vintage and history lovers. Where: Latrán Street. Time: 40 minutes. Cost: Varies greatly. Getting there: Walk across the Barber's Bridge. Tip: Ensure the stone isn't damaged or chipped.
8. Name: Jewelry Workshop Svornosti Type: Local Artisan Shop Why go: You can often see the jeweler working on-site. They can resize rings or adjust necklaces while you wait. It feels more authentic than a standard retail store. Best for: Custom adjustments. Where: Near the Town Hall. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Just off the main square. Tip: Ask if they can create a custom wire wrap for a raw stone.
9. Name: Vltavín Boutique Panská Type: High-end Boutique Why go: This shop curates the most beautiful, high-clarity stones. It feels like a gallery. If you want a statement piece, this is the place to look. Best for: Luxury purchases. Where: Panská Street. Time: 25 minutes. Cost: High. Getting there: Near the Moldavite Museum. Tip: Look for stones with a "fern-like" texture.

How to Identify Genuine Moldavite

Knowing how to spot a fake is vital when shopping. Real moldavite is never perfectly clear. It should contain tiny bubbles and lechatelierite fibers. These are visible under a magnifying glass. If the stone looks like perfect green bottle glass, it is likely fake. Real stones also have a matte, textured surface if they are raw.

Price is another major indicator. Moldavite is expensive because it is no longer being formed. If a large stone is very cheap, be suspicious. Always check the official tourism portal for recommended businesses. Learning why the museum is worth visiting will help you understand these details. A certificate should include the stone's weight and origin.