gemstone

Amber

Succinate (Fossilized Tree Resin)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, orange, honey, or brownish; Luster: Resinous; Crystal system: Amorphous; SG: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water).

Hardness: 2
Color: Yellow, orange, honey, or brownish
Luster: Resinous

Identified July 4, 2026More gemstone →

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

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, orange, honey, or brownish; Luster: Resinous; Crystal system: Amorphous; SG: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water).

Formation & geological history

Formed through the polymerization and fossilization of tree resin over millions of years (Eocene epoch, approx. 30-50 million years ago), typically from coniferous trees.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry (beads, pendants), as a source of succinic acid, and for scientific research when organisms are trapped inside.

Geological facts

Amber is not a mineral but an organic gemstone. It can contain 'inclusions' like insects, plants, or feathers that have been perfectly preserved for millions of years.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its warmth to the touch (unlike glass), ability to float in saturated salt water, and tendency to produce a pine-like scent when touched with a hot needle.