mineraloid

Baltic Amber

Succinite (Polmerized conifer resin)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow, honey-brown, or butterscotch; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in saltwater).

Hardness: 2
Color: Yellow, honey-brown, or butterscotch
Luster: Resinous

Identified March 9, 2026More mineraloid →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilized resin of ancient pine trees (most commonly Pinus succinifera) during the Eocene epoch, approximately 35 to 50 million years ago. It is typically found in marine sedimentary layers.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used in jewelry (beads, pendants, rings), decorative ornaments, and early traditional medicine. It is highly valued by collectors if it contains botanical or insect inclusions.

Geological facts

Amber is not a stone but organic fossilized resin. It can generate static electricity when rubbed (the word 'electron' comes from the Greek word for amber, 'elektron'). Baltic amber contains succinic acid, which was historically believed to provide therapeutic properties.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its light weight (warm to the touch unlike cold glass/stone) and its ability to float in a saturated salt solution. Major deposits are found along the Baltic Sea coasts of Poland, Lithuania, and Russia (Kaliningrad).

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