mineral

Amber

Succinite

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, orange, or reddish-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (organic polymer); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10.

Hardness: 2
Color: Yellow, orange, or reddish-brown
Luster: Resinous

Identified April 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, orange, or reddish-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (organic polymer); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10.

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilized resin of ancient coniferous trees, primarily dating from the Cretaceous to the Eogene periods (approx. 30-90 million years ago), in forest environments.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry (beads, pendants), as a healing stone in alternative medicine, and for scientific research due to preserved inclusions (insects, plant matter).

Geological facts

Amber is not a mineral in the strict sense but an organic gemstone. It can contain perfectly preserved prehistoric life forms, providing a 'window' into the past. The largest deposits are found in the Baltic region.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its warmth to the touch (unlike stone), its ability to float in saltwater, and the release of a pine-like scent when touched with a hot needle. Found in sedimentary deposits or washed up on beaches.