gemstone

Amber (likely Baltic amber)

Fossilized tree resin; chiefly polymerized diterpenoid resin (succinite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Honey-orange, translucent, resinous/waxy luster with an irregular fractured surface; amorphous rather than crystalline. Mohs hardness about 2–2.5; specific gravity ~1.05–1.10, so it may float in concentrated salt water. The dark streaks may be inclusions or surface staining.

Identified September 14, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber formed from ancient conifer or flowering-plant resin, buried and polymerized over millions of years; Baltic succinite is mainly Eocene–Oligocene, roughly 34–56 million years old. The reported Thuringian location is not a major amber source, though transported amber can occur in sediments or as an old decorative fragment.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, cabochons, ornaments, and historical jewelry; rarely used industrially. Small irregular pieces generally have modest value.

Geological facts

Amber is organic, not a mineral, because it lacks a crystal lattice. Genuine amber often becomes electrostatically charged when rubbed and may smell resinous when gently warmed; avoid destructive tests.

Field identification & locations

Confirm with density, UV fluorescence, magnification, and a professional gemological test. Plastic, copal, and lacquered resin are common look-alikes; inclusions and the sharp fracture alone are not diagnostic.