mineraloid

Burmese Amber (Burmite)

Burmite (C10H16O)

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown, cherry, or golden with a weathered greyish-green crust; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10.

Hardness: 2
Luster: Resinous

Identified June 22, 2026More mineraloid →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown, cherry, or golden with a weathered greyish-green crust; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10.

Formation & geological history

Burmite is formed from the fossilized resin of prehistoric coniferous or broadleaf trees, primarily dating back to the Cenomanian stage of the Late Cretaceous period (approx. 99 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, decorative carvings, and highly valued by paleontologists for its well-preserved biological inclusions.

Geological facts

Burmese amber is significantly older than Baltic amber and is famous for containing diverse Cretaceous fossils, including feathers, lizards, and prehistoric insects.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its resinous feel, lightweight nature, and distinctive 'crust' often found in river deposits in Northern Myanmar. It will float in highly saturated saltwater.