According to Yulia Van Doren, author of Crystals: The Modern Guide to Crystal Healing and founder of Goldirocks, moldavite “hands-down” has tons of mystique attached to it. “These small chunks of space glass are renowned for having extremely intense vibes, as well as an uncanny ability to mysteriously disappear and reappear at will,” she notes. As far as the lore around it, Leavy notes there’s a theory that moldavite may be the stone that was embedded in the Holy Grail. “There’s controversy back and forth on what the Holy Grail actually is, but there are some people who think it was a physical cup with a stone in it—and some think it was moldavite.” This crystal is known for its ability to incite change, personal growth and transformation, and a heightened sense of awareness. “Many people report experiencing their first physical reaction to crystals upon touching a piece of moldavite: heart-opening, whole-body, lightheaded tingles,” Van Doren says. Nevertheless, TikTok users are now sharing some crazy tales that suggest moldavite is a cursed crystal. Shortly after receiving one, some people are reporting totaled cars, breakups, deaths in the family, and so much more. However, others are claiming it’s brought positives—new friends, new jobs, spiritual growth, etc.—into their lives. Reviews are mixed, but the bad reviews are enough to make anyone think twice before buying their own moldavite. As Van Doren explains, “A crystal is an energetic tool which works together with your own energy and intentions, so believing that a crystal is ‘cursed’ and therefore will ‘curse you’ is giving the crystal far too much power (and giving yourself far too little power).” Leavy echoes this, adding, “Anytime we turn our power over to something else, it can be quite dangerous.” That said, if you do want to give moldavite a try, Van Doren notes it does have a way of working quickly and accelerating necessary changes in your life. “Change is often hard and scary, even when it’s the absolute best thing for you in the long term. This is the energy of Moldavite: very powerful, potentially overwhelming, but always for the best,” she says. Leavy notes it’s always a good idea to do your research before buying a crystal, both on how to spot fakes, as well as where you’re purchasing it from. “If a moldavite piece is very glassy or shiny looking, where it almost looks kind of wet on the surface, then it’s likely a fake,” she adds. The best way to ensure moldavite is real is to purchase from a seller you trust, Van Doren notes, and it’s worth it to get the real stuff—even if it’s more expensive. And as far as sustainability goes, Leavy says many of the concerns with other crystals regarding sustainability don’t apply here because finding moldavite doesn’t involve strip mining, and it is mostly extracted near the Earth’s surface. Of course, you always want to look into worker conditions (and especially child labor), but Leavy says moldavite is “less of a concern given where it’s from […] and how it is collected.” “Hold your moldavite in your hands, or place on your body where you feel guided, and let it work its fast-acting magic on your energy system.” She recommends placing it on your heart chakra if you’re not sure where to start. It’s also common to feel a touch lightheaded after spending time with moldavite, she notes, so if this happens ground yourself by standing outside in the dirt, rock, or grass. Along with storing it properly (ideally in a soft bag that will protect any edges), you can cleanse and charge your moldavite too. “Use a non-culturally appropriated method of cleansing,” Leavy suggests, such as a sound bath or sun or moonlight. (Be sure to check out our full guide on cleaning, storing, and programming crystals for more info!)