fossil

Baltic Amber (Raw)

Succinite

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs); Color: Dark brown to black (appearing opaque/weathered outside); Luster: Resinous; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light/buoyant); Amorphous structure.

Hardness: 2
Color: Dark brown to black (appearing opaque/weathered outside)
Luster: Resinous

Identified July 11, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 (Mohs); Color: Dark brown to black (appearing opaque/weathered outside); Luster: Resinous; Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light/buoyant); Amorphous structure.

Formation & geological history

Fossilized resin from coniferous trees of the Eocene epoch, approximately 35-50 million years old. Formed in ancient 'amber forests' and later deposited in marine sediments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for jewelry, historical artifacts, traditional medicine, and scientific study of prehistoric life (inclusions).

Geological facts

The location provided (54.9°N, 20.2°E) is in the Kaliningrad region of Russia, which contains over 90% of the world's known amber deposits. Baltic amber contains succinic acid, which is believed to have medicinal properties.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its light weight; it will float in highly saturated saltwater but sink in freshwater. It feels warm to the touch compared to stone and can produce a pine-like smell if rubbed vigorously or heated.