fossil

Amber (fossilized tree resin)

Fossilized plant resin; commonly succinite (not a mineral, largely organic polymer)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness about 2–2.5; translucent honey-yellow to orange-brown, resinous luster, amorphous/noncrystalline, conchoidal fracture, very low density (~1.05–1.10). The specimen appears rough and naturally weathered, with possible internal flow textures.

Identified September 14, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber formed when ancient conifer or flowering-plant resin was buried, chemically altered, and hardened over millions of years, commonly during the Cretaceous–Paleogene and later. The exact age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, ornaments, jewelry, and scientific specimens; exceptionally clear pieces may contain plant fragments or insects.

Geological facts

Amber floats in concentrated salt water and becomes electrostatically charged when rubbed. It softens or gives a pine-like odor when gently warmed, though destructive testing is best avoided.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Myanmar, and Indonesia. Identification clues are low weight, warm feel, resinous appearance, static charge, and buoyancy in salt water; copal and plastic imitations are common.