mineraloid
Amber
Succinite (with approximate formula C10H16O)
Hardness: 2.0–2.5 Mohs scale; Color: honey-yellow, orange, or reddish-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05–1.09 (light enough to float in saltwater).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- honey-yellow, orange, or reddish-brown
- Luster
- Resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0–2.5 Mohs scale; Color: honey-yellow, orange, or reddish-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05–1.09 (light enough to float in saltwater).
Formation & geological history
Formed through the fossilization of resin from extinct coniferous trees (primarily Pinus succinifera). Most commercial deposits are from the Eocene epoch (approx. 34–56 million years ago), found in sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry, decorative arts, and perfumery. It is highly valued by paleontologists for preserving prehistoric DNA and ancient inclusions like insects and plant life.
Geological facts
Amber is not a stone but organic fossilized resin. It possesses electrostatic properties; if rubbed with a cloth, it becomes negatively charged and can attract small bits of paper or ash.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its warmth to the touch (unlike cold glass) and its ability to float in saturated saltwater. Commonly found in the Baltic Sea region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar. For collectors, look for clarity and biological inclusions.
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