Organic Gemstone/Mineraloid
Baltic Amber (Butterscotch variety)
Succinite
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque honey-yellow to creamy orange; Luster: Resinous; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Opaque honey-yellow to creamy orange
- Luster
- Resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Opaque honey-yellow to creamy orange; Luster: Resinous; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the fossilized resin of ancient coniferous trees (Pinus succinifera). These specimens typically date back to the Eocene epoch, approximately 44 million years ago, primarily in the Baltic Sea region.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in fine jewelry, prayer beads (misbaha), and luxury collectibles. Historically used in folk medicine and incense.
Geological facts
Baltic amber contains high concentrations of succinic acid (3-8%), which distinguish it from newer resins or copal. It is known as 'Northern Gold' and the butterscotch color is caused by millions of tiny air bubbles trapped inside the resin.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its warmth to the touch (plastic feels colder), its ability to float in a saturated saltwater solution, and the scent of pine needle resin when rubbed briskly or touched with a hot needle. Found primarily along the coasts of Poland, Lithuania, and Russia (Kaliningrad).
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