fossil

Amber

Succinite (Resinite)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light, floats in salt water).

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

Identified July 2, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light, floats in salt water).

Formation & geological history

Fossilized tree resin from ancient coniferous forests, primarily dating back to the Eocene epoch (34-56 million years ago). It is formed through polymerization and burial in sedimentary layers.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry (beads, pendants), as a healing stone in folk medicine, and scientifically for studying prehistoric life trapped as inclusions.

Geological facts

Amber is not a mineral but an organic gem. It can float in sea water, which is how it often washes up on beaches after storms. If rubbed with a cloth, it generates static electricity.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its light weight and warmth to the touch compared to stone. A common field test is the 'float test' in saturated salt water. Often found on Baltic Sea coasts and in various Tertiary sedimentary deposits.