mineraloid
Amber
Succinates (C10H16O)
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs, Color: Honey yellow to orange-brown, Luster: Resinous, Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10.
- Hardness
- 2
Identified More mineraloid →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs, Color: Honey yellow to orange-brown, Luster: Resinous, Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline), Cleavage: None, Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the fossilization of resin from ancient coniferous trees over millions of years (Cenozoic era). Commonly found in sedimentary deposits near coastlines.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry making, ornamental carvings, and as a source for amber acid. Highly valued by collectors for inclusions like ancient insects or plant matter.
Geological facts
Amber is often used to preserve prehistoric DNA and organisms. It can float in salt water and generates static electricity when rubbed with a cloth.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its warmth to the touch (unlike glass), pleasant pine smell when heated, and ability to float in a saturated salt-water solution. Baltic region is the most famous location.
More like this
Other mineraloid specimens
Amber
Succinite (Organic Mineraloid)
mineral
Mahogany Obsidian
Volcanic glass (high silica) with inclusions of Magnetite or Hematite
igneous
Obsidian
Volcanic glass (SiO2 + impurities)
igneous
Black Obsidian
Volcanic Glass (predominantly SiO2)
igneous
Fulgurite
Fulgurite (Lechatelierite)
metamorphic
Black Obsidian
Volcanic Glass (SiO2 + impurities)
Igneous