Mineraloid
Amber
Succinicum (Formula: C10H16O)
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
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Physical properties
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).
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.