Organic Mineraloid
Amber
Succinite (specific to Baltic amber), fossilized tree resin
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to honey-orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light, floats in salt water).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Yellow to honey-orange
- Luster
- Resinous
Identified More organic mineraloid →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow to honey-orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light, floats in salt water).
Formation & geological history
Formed through the fossilization of resin from extinct coniferous trees (such as Pinus succinifera) over millions of years. Most specimens date back to the Eocene epoch (approx. 34-56 million years ago).
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry (beads, pendants), as an ingredient in perfumes/incense, and in scientific research for studying prehistoric flora and fauna trapped as inclusions.
Geological facts
Amber is famous for preserving delicate organic matter like insects, lizards, and feathers in perfect detail. Unlike true minerals, it is organic and can burn if exposed to a flame.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its light weight and warmth to the touch; it will generate static electricity when rubbed with a cloth. Commonly found in the Baltic Sea region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.
More like this
Other organic mineraloid specimens
Pearl
Organic Mineraloid (CaCO3 + Conchiolin)
mineral
Amber
Succinite (Organic Mineraloid)
mineral
Amber
Succinite (Organic Mineraloid) - C10H16O
mineral
Amber
Succinite (organic mineraloid); Chemical formula: C10H16O
mineral
Pearl
Calcium Carbonate (Aragonite) with Conchiolin; formula: CaCO3
mineral
Amber
Succinite (C10H16O)
Mineraloid