Organic Gemstone (not a rock)

Amber (Cherry or Red variety)

Succinite (with various trace amounts of organic compounds)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep cherry red to reddish-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.10 (very light/buoyant in salt water).

Hardness: 2
Color: Deep cherry red to reddish-brown
Luster: Resinous

Identified March 7, 2026More organic gemstone (not a rock) →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the fossilization of tree resin from coniferous trees. The deep red color often occurs naturally through oxidation over millions of years (Eocene-Miocene eras, approx. 30-50 million years old) or through specialized heat treatments.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry-making, tasbih (Islamic prayer beads), rosaries, and historical carvings. It is prized by collectors for its clarity and color depth.

Geological facts

Red amber is one of the rarest natural colors of amber. It is sometimes called 'Blood Amber' or 'Cherry Amber.' Unlike many gemstones, amber is warm to the touch and can generate static electricity when rubbed against wool.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its low weight and warmth. In the field, look for it in sedimentary deposits or washed up on coastlines. For collectors: testing include a salt water float test (it floats) and a UV light test (may fluoresce blue or green).

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Baltic Amber (Butterscotch or Egg Yolk Variety)

Succinite (chemical formula: C10H16O)

Organic Gemstone (not a rock or mineral)

Red Coral

Corallium rubrum (for precious red coral), although other species like Corallium japonicum and Paracorallium are also used.

Organic Gemstone (not a rock or mineral in the traditional sense, but bio-mineralized material)

Amber

Organic gemstone (Succinite)

mineral

Not a rock