gemstone

Amber (likely rough amber or copal)

Fossilized tree resin; chiefly an organic polymer with terpenoid remnants

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent honey-yellow to orange, resinous/waxy luster, amorphous rather than crystalline, Mohs hardness about 2–2.5, and very low density (~1.05–1.10). The rounded, partly polished appearance is consistent with amber, though copal (younger resin) is possible.

Identified September 7, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Amber (likely rough amber or copal)
Scientific name: Fossilized tree resin; chiefly an organic polymer with terpenoid remnants
Category: gemstone
Identified: September 7, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small ordinary piece; $50–$500+ for attractive transparent amber, and substantially more if it contains a well-preserved inclusion.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Produced as tree resin and buried in sediments, then polymerized over millions of years; Baltic amber is mainly Eocene (~34–56 million years old), while deposits elsewhere vary widely. It commonly forms in lignite-bearing coastal or deltaic sediments.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornaments, and historical varnish; prized specimens may contain insects or plant inclusions. It is too soft for most industrial construction applications.

Geological facts

Amber commonly floats in saturated salt water and becomes electrostatically charged when rubbed. Copal typically scratches more easily and softens or becomes tacky with gentle warmth.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Myanmar, and Indonesia. Field tests include low density, warm resinous smell when gently warmed, and a scratch test with a fingernail; avoid destructive testing on valuable pieces.