Mineraloid
Amber
Succinite (specifically for Baltic amber); approximate formula C10H16O
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very buoyant).
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Honey-yellow to orange-brown
- Luster
- Resinous
Identified More mineraloid →
Explore Amber in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very buoyant).
Formation & geological history
Formed through the fossilization of resin from extinct coniferous and deciduous trees. Most specimens date back to the Paleogene period (approx. 30-50 million years ago) in lagoonal or forest floor environments.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry (beads, pendants), as a healing stone in folk medicine, as a source for perfume ingredients, and scientifically for the preservation of prehistoric inclusions (insects, plants).
Geological facts
Amber is organic matter, not a mineral. It is famous for trapping ancient DNA and organisms in a vacuum-like state. It is one of the few 'stones' that will float in highly saturated saltwater.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its warmth to the touch, lightness, and electrostatic properties (attracts dust when rubbed). Often found along coastlines after storms, particularly in the Baltic region and Dominican Republic.
More like this
Other mineraloid specimens
Amber
Succinite (Organic Mineraloid)
mineral
Mahogany Obsidian
Volcanic glass (high silica) with inclusions of Magnetite or Hematite
igneous
Obsidian
Volcanic glass (SiO2 + impurities)
igneous
Black Obsidian
Volcanic Glass (predominantly SiO2)
igneous
Gold Sheen Obsidian
Volcanic Glass (SiO2 + Fe3O4 / Gas Inclusions)
igneous
Fulgurite
Fulgurite (Lechatelierite)
metamorphic