gemstone
Amber
Fossilized Tree Resin
Hardness: 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Yellow, orange, brown, occasionally whitish or reddish. Luster: Resinous. Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline). Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light, can float in salt water).
- Hardness
- 2-2
- Color
- Yellow, orange, brown, occasionally whitish or reddish
- Luster
- Resinous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Yellow, orange, brown, occasionally whitish or reddish. Luster: Resinous. Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline). Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light, can float in salt water).
Formation & geological history
Formed from the fossilized and hardened resin of ancient coniferous and angiosperm trees, typically dating from the Cretaceous to the Paleogene periods (millions of years old).
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, ornamental carvings, and historical artifacts. Also valued by scientists for trapped inclusions of ancient insects and flora.
Geological facts
Amber is not a true mineral as it lacks a crystalline structure and is organic in origin. Some pieces contain perfectly preserved prehistoric insects, feathers, or plant matter.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its warm touch, low specific gravity, resinous luster, and electrostatic properties when rubbed. Major deposits are found around the Baltic Sea and the Dominican Republic.
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