mineraloid

Amber

Succiniferous fossil resin (C10H16O)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow, orange, honey, or brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10

Hardness: 2
Color: Golden yellow, orange, honey, or brown
Luster: Resinous

Identified June 16, 2026More mineraloid →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow, orange, honey, or brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10

Formation & geological history

Formed through the fossilization of tree resin over millions of years (typically 30-90 million years old). It is associated with ancient forests where resin was buried in sedimentary deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry making (beads, pendants), as a healing stone in folk medicine, and scientifically to study prehistoric life trapped as inclusions.

Geological facts

Amber is one of the few organic mineraloids. It can trap insects, plants, and even small vertebrates in near-perfect condition for millions of years. The oldest amber dates back to the Carboniferous period.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its lightness (it may float in salt water), warm feel to the touch, and the fact it produces a pine-like smell when touched with a hot needle. Often found in the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.