mineral

Amber

Succinite (Organic Mineraloid) - C10H16O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture).

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

Identified March 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the fossilization of tree resin from coniferous or angiosperm trees through polymerisation. Most common specimens exceed 20 to 40 million years in age (Cenozoic era), often found in marine sedimentary deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry making (beads, pendants), as an ornamental stone, in perfumery, and as a significant source of paleoentomological data for scientific research.

Geological facts

Amber is famous for preserving delicate organic matter, such as insects and plant parts, in life-like detail. The term 'electricity' is derived from the Greek name for amber, 'lektron', because it produces static when rubbed with cloth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its light weight (it floats in salt water), warm feel, and electrostatic properties. Common locations include the Baltic Sea region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar. For collectors, check for natural inclusions or transparency.