Amber

Physical Properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Honey-yellow, orange, or brown. Luster: Resinous. Crystal structure: Amorphous. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light, floats in salt water).

Formation & Geological History

Fossilized tree resin from ancient coniferous or deciduous trees. Formed during a polymerization process over millions of years (typically 30–90 million years old) under high pressure and heat within sedimentary layers.

Uses & Applications

Primarily used in jewelry, decorative carvings, and perfumery. It is also of immense scientific value for preserving biological inclusions like insects and plant matter.

Geological Facts

Amber is not a true mineral because it is organic and lacks a crystal structure. Copal is a 'younger' version of amber that has not yet finished the fossilization process. If you rub it with a cloth, it can produce static electricity.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify in the field by its light weight and 'warm' feel compared to cold stone. It can be tested by its buoyancy in saturated salt water or by the 'hot needle test' (it emits a piney, resinous smell when touched by a hot point). Found in coastal regions, especially the Baltic Sea.

Identified on: 4/14/2026

Mode: Standard