Organic Mineraloid

Amber

Succinite (Formula: C10H16O)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light/buoyant).

Hardness: 2
Color: Honey yellow to orange-brown
Luster: Resinous

Identified March 17, 2026More organic mineraloid →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the fossilization of plant resin from ancient coniferous forests, primarily dating back to the Eocene Epoch (approx. 40-50 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), decorative arts, and as a source for amber acid in traditional medicine. Historically used for scent/incense.

Geological facts

Amber is famous for preserving delicate inclusions of prehistoric creatures like insects, spiders, and even small feathers or lizards in near-perfect detail.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its warmth to the touch (unlike cold stones), its extreme lightness, and its ability to float in saltwater. It is commonly found in the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.