gemstone

Amber

Fossilized Tree Resin (C10H16O)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs. Color: Golden yellow, pale yellow, greenish to reddish-brown. Luster: Resin-like. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salty water).

Hardness: 2
Color: Golden yellow, pale yellow, greenish to reddish-brown
Luster: Resin-like

Identified July 24, 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. Color: Golden yellow, pale yellow, greenish to reddish-brown. Luster: Resin-like. Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture). Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salty water).

Formation & geological history

Formed from fossilized resin excreted by ancient coniferous and angiosperm trees millions of years ago (Eocene to Miocene epochs). Over time, volatile organic components evaporate and polymerization occurs under sediment pressure.

Uses & applications

Widely used in jewelry (pendants, beads, rings), decorative carvings, artistic ornaments, and scientific study of botanical/entomological inclusions.

Geological facts

Amber is an organic gemstone rather than a true mineral. It can preserve ancient plant material, insects, and air bubbles from tens of millions of years ago, offering a unique window into ancient ecosystems.

Field identification & locations

Key identification traits include warm touch, lightness, ability to float in saturated saltwater, and static electricity generated when rubbed with a cloth. Major sources include the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.