mineraloid
Amber (specifically Burmese Amber or Burmite)
Succiniferous fossil resin (C10H16O)
Hardness: 2.5-3.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Brownish-red to cherry red with dark weathering crust, Luster: Resinous, Crystal Structure: Amorphous (none), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10
- Hardness
- 2
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Brownish-red to cherry red with dark weathering crust, Luster: Resinous, Crystal Structure: Amorphous (none), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10
Formation & geological history
Formed from fossilized tree resin of ancient coniferous or angiosperm trees during the Cretaceous period (approx. 99 million years ago). Typically found in clay-rich sedimentary deposits.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as a gemstone, for carving, and scientifically valuable for containing well-preserved prehistoric inclusions (insects, plant matter).
Geological facts
Burmese amber is one of the hardest types of amber and is famous for containing diverse Cretaceous fossils, including feathers and even small dinosaur fragments.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its light weight (low density), warmth to the touch, and characteristic 'pine' smell when rubbed or pierced with a hot needle. Fluoresces blue or green under UV light.
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