mineraloid / organic geological substance
Ambergris
Ambrein (C30H52O)
Hardness: 1 (very soft/waxy); Color: Grey, black, or yellowish-brown; Luster: Dull or waxy; Crystal Structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 0.7-0.9 (drifts on water)
- Hardness
- 1 (very soft/waxy)
- Color
- Grey, black, or yellowish-brown
- Luster
- Dull or waxy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 1 (very soft/waxy); Color: Grey, black, or yellowish-brown; Luster: Dull or waxy; Crystal Structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 0.7-0.9 (drifts on water)
Formation & geological history
Formed in the digestive system of sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) around indigestible squid beaks. It ages for years or decades in the ocean, undergoing oxidation and photodegradation.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a fixative in high-end perfumery to make scents last longer. Also used in traditional medicine and as a rare incense.
Geological facts
Often called 'floating gold' or 'treasure of the sea'. It is one of the few valuable geological-style specimens produced biologically. Fresh ambergris smells of fecal matter, but aged sea-tossed pieces develop a sweet, earthy, oceanic scent.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its waxy texture, ability to float in salt water, and a positive 'hot needle test' where it melts into a dark liquid or black oil. Found washed up on beaches in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
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