mineral

Amber

Succinite (specifically for Baltic amber); C10H16O (Variable organic compound)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow, orange, or cognac-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in saltwater).

Hardness: 2
Color: Honey-yellow, orange, or cognac-brown
Luster: Resinous

Identified March 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilized resin of ancient coniferous trees (gymnosperms) or some broad-leaved trees. Dating mostly from the Cretaceous to the Eocene periods (approx. 30-90 million years old), it forms in coastal or lagoonal environments where resin is buried in sediment.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry for beads and pendants; historically used for perfumes and folk medicine; highly valued in scientific research when it contains 'inclusions' (stabilized prehistoric insects or plants).

Geological facts

Amber is not a true mineral but an 'organic mineraloid.' It is unique because it can preserve soft tissues of ancient organisms for millions of years. If rubbed with a cloth, it becomes electrostatically charged and can attract small bits of paper, a property called 'static electricity' first recorded by the Greeks.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its warmth to the touch (unlike cold glass/stone) and light weight. It will float in a saturated salt-water solution (1 cup water/quarter cup salt). Commonly found along the Baltic Sea coasts (Poland, Russia, Lithuania), the Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.

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