Organic Mineraloid
Amber
Succinite (specifically for Baltic amber); Fossilized Tree Resin (C10H16O)
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-brown, yellow, orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in saltwater).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Honey-brown, yellow, orange
- Luster
- Resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-brown, yellow, orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in saltwater).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the fossilized resin of ancient coniferous trees. The resin underwent polymerization over millions of years (typically 30-90 million years ago) under heat and pressure within sedimentary layers.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry (beads, pendants), as a healing stone in folk medicine, and scientifically for the preservation of prehistoric inclusions like insects and plant DNA.
Geological facts
Amber is not a stone but organic matter. Some specimens contain 'inclusions'—perfectly preserved insects or feathers from the Cretaceous or Tertiary periods. Burning amber yields a characteristic pleasant, pine-like scent.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its warmth to the touch (unlike cold stones) and lightness. In the field, it is often found in 'blue earth' sedimentary layers or washed up on beaches. It will produce static electricity if rubbed against silk.
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