organic mineraloid
Amber
Succinite (specifically for Baltic amber); approximate formula C10H16O
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Golden yellow to honey orange with internal swirls, Luster: Resinous, Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water).
- Hardness
- 2
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Golden yellow to honey orange with internal swirls, Luster: Resinous, Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water).
Formation & geological history
Formed through the fossilization of resin from extinct coniferous trees (primarily Pinus succinifera). These specimens likely date back 30-50 million years (Eocene epoch) and were preserved in sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry, prayer beads (misbaha/tasbih), decorative carvings, and as a source for amber acid in traditional medicine and perfumes.
Geological facts
Amber is organic matter, not a mineral. It is famous for trapping prehistoric insects, plants, and air bubbles. Baltic amber contains succinic acid, which was historically believed to have analgesic properties.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the 'salt water test' (it floats in saturated saltwater but sinks in freshwater) or the 'static electricity test' (it attracts small bits of paper when rubbed with silk). Commonly found in the Baltic Sea region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.
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