mineral

Amber

Resinite / Fossilized Tree Resin

Hardness: 2.0–2.5 Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.05–1.10 (floats in saltwater).

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

Identified April 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0–2.5 Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.05–1.10 (floats in saltwater).

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilization of botanical resin from ancient coniferous or deciduous trees. Most geological deposits range from the Cretaceous to the Eocene (approximately 30 to 90 million years old).

Uses & applications

Primary use in jewelry and decorative arts. Highly valued in scientific research (paleontology) when specimens contain biological inclusions like insects or plant matter.

Geological facts

Amber is not a true mineral because it is organic and lacks a crystal structure. It is one of the few organic gemstones. Some of the most famous deposits are found in the Baltic region and the Dominican Republic.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified in the field by its warmth to the touch (unlike cold stones) and its ability to float in highly saturated saltwater. It often develops a static charge when rubbed with a cloth.