Mineraloid (Organic)
Red Amber (Burmite/Cherry Amber)
Succinite / Retinite (Organic Fossilized Resin, C10H16O)
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Deep ruby red to cherry; Luster: Resinous to vitreous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10.
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Deep ruby red to cherry
- Luster
- Resinous to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Deep ruby red to cherry; Luster: Resinous to vitreous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the fossilization of tree resin (primarily from extinct coniferous trees) over millions of years through polymerization. Often dates to the Cretaceous or Eocene periods (approx. 40-100 million years old).
Uses & applications
Primarily used in high-end jewelry, prayer beads (tasbih), and collecting. Historically used in traditional medicine and as a symbol of status and protection.
Geological facts
Red amber is naturally rarer than yellow amber. Naturally occurring red amber (often called 'Burmite' from Myanmar) often contains ancient insect or plant inclusions, making it a time capsule for prehistoric life.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its low density (floats in saturated saltwater) and electrostatic properties (attracts dust when rubbed). Often found in Myanmar, the Baltic region (heat-treated), and the Dominican Republic. Real amber will smell like pine resin when touched with a hot needle.
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