mineraloid

Amber

Succinite (C10H16O)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey yellow to dark brown/black; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.09 (light enough to float in salt water)

Hardness: 2
Color: Honey yellow to dark brown/black
Luster: Resinous

Identified March 1, 2026More mineraloid →

Explore 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

Formed through the fossilization of resin from extinct coniferous trees, typically over millions of years; common geological ages range from the Cretaceous to the Neogene periods.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry, as incense, and as a medium for preserving prehistoric inclusions (insects, flora) which are highly valued by scientific collectors.

Geological facts

Amber is organic matter, not a mineral. It is famous for trapping well-preserved prehistoric organisms. The 'Amber Room' in Russia is one of the most famous historical uses of the material.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its light weight and 'warm' feel compared to stone; it will produce a static charge when rubbed and a pine-like smell when touched with a hot needle. Commonly found in the Baltic region and Dominican Republic.