fossil

Honey-colored amber (likely copal or amber fragment)

Amber: fossilized plant resin; commonly succinite (C₁₀H₁₆O)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Transparent yellow-brown, resinous luster, conchoidal fracture, amorphous rather than crystalline; Mohs hardness about 2–2.5 (copal is softer, about 1.5–2.0), specific gravity roughly 1.05–1.10. The image shows a polished or naturally fractured resin fragment with internal flow structures.

Identified August 20, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Derived from ancient tree resin that polymerized and fossilized in sediment, typically over millions of years; true amber is generally older than roughly 1–2 million years, while copal is younger. Common deposits include Baltic, Dominican, Mexican, Burmese, and Indonesian regions.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, ornaments, jewelry, and scientific inclusions; historically burned as incense and used in folk medicine. It is lightweight and warm to the touch, unlike most gemstones.

Geological facts

Amber may preserve insects, pollen, leaves, and air bubbles. A useful test is static electricity after rubbing, though plastics can imitate it; avoid destructive hot-needle testing.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its very low density, warm feel, resinous appearance, and flotation in concentrated salt water; UV fluorescence can support identification. Common sources include the Baltic coast and Dominican Republic.