Organic Gemstone (fossilized resin)
Baltic Amber (Butterscotch or Egg Yolk Variety)
Succinite (C10H16O)
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs; Color: Opaque yellow to creamy white; Luster: Resinous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in saltwater).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Opaque yellow to creamy white
- Luster
- Resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs; Color: Opaque yellow to creamy white; Luster: Resinous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in saltwater).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the fossilized resin of ancient coniferous trees (Pinus succinifera) during the Eocene epoch, approximately 35-50 million years ago. Found primarily in marine sedimentary deposits.
Uses & applications
Primary use in jewelry (beads, pendants), ornamental carvings, and traditional medicine in some cultures. Historically used as a component in perfumes and lacquers.
Geological facts
Baltic amber accounts for over 80% of the world's known amber. Unlike younger resins (copal), true amber has undergone polymerization over millions of years. It is famous for sometimes containing perfectly preserved prehistoric flora and fauna.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its light weight, warmth to the touch, and ability to float in a saturated salt solution. Collectors look for 'flow lines' and opacity in butterscotch varieties. Common locations: Coastlines of Poland, Lithuania, and Russia (Kaliningrad).
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