Mineraloid

Amber

Succinicum (Formula: C10H16O)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in saltwater).

Hardness: 2
Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown
Luster: Resinous

Identified March 20, 2026More mineraloid →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the fossilization of tree resin over millions of years. Most common specimens are from the Eocene epoch (approx. 44 million years ago), particularly in the Baltic region.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry as gemstones, beads, and carvings. Historically used in folk medicine, perfumes (as an ingredient in 'amber' scents), and incense.

Geological facts

Amber often contains 'inclusions' which are prehistoric insects, plant matter, or air bubbles trapped within the resin before it hardened. It is one of the few organic gemstones.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its warmth to the touch (unlike cold stone) and its ability to float in a saturated salt solution. It can be found on beaches, particularly after storms in the Baltic Sea, or in sedimentary deposits.