Mineraloid

Amber

Succinite (Carbon-based organic compound; approximate formula C10H16O)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow, orange, brown, reddish-orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.09 (floats in saltwater).

Hardness: 2
Color: Honey-yellow, orange, brown, reddish-orange
Luster: Resinous

Identified March 18, 2026More mineraloid →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilized resin of ancient coniferous and angiosperm trees. It undergoes polymerization and burial over millions of years. Most geological deposits date from the Eocene (34-56 million years ago) to the Cretaceous periods.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry making, ornamental carvings, and as a perfume ingredient. It is highly valued by paleontologists for preserving prehistoric life (inclusions like insects and plants).

Geological facts

Amber is organic, not a true mineral. It can generate static electricity when rubbed (the word 'electron' comes from the Greek word for amber, 'elektron'). The most famous historical structure made of it was the Amber Room of the Czars in Russia.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its light weight, warmth to the touch (unlike cold glass/stone), and ability to float in a saturated salt solution. Primarily found in the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.

Other mineraloid specimens

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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