fossil

Baltic Amber

Succinite (Fossilized Tree Resin)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to reddish-orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (organic glass); Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water).

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

Identified July 11, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to reddish-orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (organic glass); Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water).

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilized resin of Eocene epoch conifers (Pinus succinifera) approximately 35-50 million years ago. Found in secondary deposits within sedimentary layers.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry, lapidary arts, and scientific research (study of inclusions). Formerly used in varnish and folk medicine.

Geological facts

The location provided (54.9°N, 20.2°E) is in the Kaliningrad region, the world's most productive source of amber. Baltic amber often contains perfectly preserved prehistoric insects or plant matter.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by its lightness; it feels warm to the touch compared to stone and will float in a saturated salt water solution. Often found washed up on Baltic Sea beaches after storms.