Organic Gemstone (Biogenic)
Amber Inlay Jewelry
Fossilized Resin (C10H16O)
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey brown to reddish-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Light, warm to the touch; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.09.
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Honey brown to reddish-brown
- Luster
- Resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey brown to reddish-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Light, warm to the touch; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.09.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the fossilized resin of prehistoric coniferous trees (primarily Pinus succinifera). Most commercial amber dates to the Eocene epoch (approx. 44 million years ago), typically found in marine sedimentary deposits where it was washed from forests.
Uses & applications
Primary use is in jewelry, decorative arts, and lapidary work. Historically used in perfumes and folk medicine.
Geological facts
Amber is not a true mineral because it is organic and lacks a crystal structure. It often contains 'inclusions' like ancient insects or plant matter trapped millions of years ago, which are highly valuable to scientists and collectors.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its light weight (it can float in saltwater) and it will produce a pine-like smell if touched with a hot needle. The pieces in the image are inlayed into a metal setting, likely silver or a silver-toned alloy.
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