mineraloid

Amber

Succinite (approximate formula C10H16O)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, orange, honey-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.09 (floats in salt water)

Hardness: 2
Color: Yellow, orange, honey-brown
Luster: Resinous

Identified June 25, 2026More mineraloid →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, orange, honey-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.09 (floats in salt water)

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilized resin of ancient coniferous and broad-leaved trees through a process of polymerization over millions of years (primarily Eocene epoch, 30-50 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry, perfume manufacturing, historical folk medicine, and scientific research (biological inclusions).

Geological facts

Amber is not a true mineral because it is organic and lacks a crystalline structure. It is famous for trapping prehistoric insects, plants, and even small animals inside its resin.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its warm feel, ability to float in saturated salt water, and static electricity properties when rubbed. Commonly found in the Baltic region and the Dominican Republic.