Amber

Physical Properties

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

Formation & Geological History

Formed through the fossilization of tree resin from coniferous or angiosperm trees over millions of years, typically dating from the Cretaceous to the Neogene periods.

Uses & Applications

Used extensively in jewelry, perfume manufacturing, folk medicine, and decorative carvings. It is also invaluable for scientific research due to biological inclusions like insects.

Geological Facts

Unlike most gemstones, amber is organic. It can preserve soft tissues of ancient organisms that would otherwise decay. The oldest amber dates back approximately 320 million years.

Field Identification & Locations

Identified by its warmth to the touch, lightness, and ability to float in saturated salt water. Often found in sedimentary coastal deposits, particularly in the Baltic region and Dominican Republic.

Identified on: 5/14/2026

Mode: Standard