gemstone

Amber (likely rough amber)

Fossilized plant resin; chiefly polymerized terpenoid resin (succinite, when Baltic-type)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent honey-orange to brown, resinous/waxy luster, commonly conchoidal fracture and flow-like internal textures; Mohs hardness about 2–2.5, specific gravity about 1.05–1.10. The specimen appears rough and may show surface weathering or inclusions.

Identified September 5, 2026More gemstone →

Explore Amber (likely rough amber) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber forms when ancient tree resin is buried, chemically altered, and polymerized over millions of years, typically in sedimentary deposits. Its exact age and type cannot be determined from the photograph; coastal Washington can contain transported amber, though it is not diagnostic there.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, ornaments, and collector specimens. Value is generally modest unless unusually clear, large, vividly colored, or containing authenticated inclusions.

Geological facts

Amber often floats in concentrated salt water and may develop static charge when rubbed. It softens or burns with a resinous odor, but heating or destructive tests should be avoided.

Field identification & locations

Likely amber rather than crystalline quartz or ordinary rock, based on its warm translucency and resin-like fracture. Confirm with a loupe, low density, static attraction, and comparison with plastic or copal; professional testing is best for valuable pieces.