Organic Gemstone (often associated with Sedimentary sequences)

Amber

Succinite (specifically for Baltic Amber), Formula: C10H16O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs); Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water)

Hardness: 2
Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown
Luster: Resinous

Identified March 18, 2026More organic gemstone (often associated with sedimentary sequences) →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs); Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water)

Formation & geological history

Fossilized tree resin from ancient coniferous forests, primarily dating back to the Eocene epoch (approx. 34-56 million years ago). It forms through the polymerization of sap under high pressure and anaerobic conditions in sedimentary layers.

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry (beads, pendants), decorative arts, and as a scientific medium for preserving biological inclusions (insects, flora).

Geological facts

Amber is not a true mineral because it is organic and lacks a crystalline structure. It is famous for the 'Amber Room' in Russia and for preserving prehistoric DNA and soft-tissue organisms.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its light weight, warmth to the touch, and ability to generate static electricity when rubbed (triboelectricity). In the field, look for nodules in sedimentary 'blue earth' layers. It will float in a saturated salt-water solution, whereas plastic imitations usually sink.