Organic Gemstone (fossilized resin)

Amber

Succinite (specifically for Baltic amber); chemical formula approx. C10H16O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow, orange, or brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light/buoyant)

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

Identified March 29, 2026More organic gemstone (fossilized resin) →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow, orange, or brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light/buoyant)

Formation & geological history

Formed through the fossilization of plant resin from extinct coniferous trees. The most famous deposits date back to the Eocene epoch (approx. 44 million years ago) in the Baltic region.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (beads, pendants), as a decorative ornament, and in scientific research if it contains inclusions (trapped insects or plant matter).

Geological facts

Amber is not a true mineral because it is organic and lacks a crystalline structure. It is famous for preserving delicate biological specimens like insects and feathers in incredible detail for millions of years.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its warmth to the touch (unlike cold glass) and its ability to float in highly saline water. It can also produce a static charge when rubbed. Found commonly on beaches in the Baltic Sea or in coal mining regions.