gemstone

Amber (likely beach-worn amber or resinous material)

Fossilized plant resin; predominantly organic terpenoid polymers (succinite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent orange-brown with resinous luster and rounded, abraded surfaces; Mohs hardness about 2–2.5, very low density (~1.05–1.10), amorphous rather than crystalline, and lacking cleavage. The image is consistent with amber, though some plastics or modern resin can look similar.

Identified August 27, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber formed when ancient tree resin was buried, chemically altered, and lithified over millions of years; Baltic amber is mainly Eocene (~34–56 million years old). It commonly erodes from coastal sediments and concentrates on beaches.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, jewelry, ornaments, and scientific inclusions; historically burned as incense and used in folk medicine.

Geological facts

Amber may contain preserved insects, plant fragments, or bubbles. It often floats in salt water and produces a pine-like odor when gently warmed; electrostatic attraction after rubbing is a traditional test.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Baltic coasts, the Dominican Republic, Myanmar, Mexico, and coastal sediments worldwide. Confirm with density, UV fluorescence, and professional testing; avoid damaging heat or solvents.