gemstone

Amber

Fossilized tree resin; chiefly organic terpenoid polymers (succinite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 2–2.5; translucent honey-orange to brown, resinous luster, amorphous/noncrystalline, conchoidal fracture, very low specific gravity (~1.05–1.10). The irregular translucent piece appears raw and naturally weathered.

Identified September 14, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Derived from plant resin buried in sediment and polymerized over roughly 20–100+ million years; Baltic amber is commonly Eocene (~44–50 Ma), though the source locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornaments, and scientific specimens; historically used in incense and traditional medicine. Clear pieces containing insects can command premium prices.

Geological facts

Amber floats in saturated salt water and becomes electrostatically charged when rubbed; heating produces a characteristic pine-like odor. It is not a mineral because it is organic and noncrystalline.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its lightweight feel, warm touch, resinous appearance, static charge, and reaction to gentle warmth; copal and some plastics are common look-alikes. Major deposits occur around the Baltic Sea, the Dominican Republic, Myanmar, Mexico, and Indonesia.