gemstone

Honey-colored amber

Amber (fossilized plant resin; chiefly polymerized terpenoid compounds)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 2–2.5; translucent golden-brown with resinous to vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, and no cleavage. The irregular shape and internal flow-like structures are consistent with a polished or naturally worn amber piece.

Identified August 27, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber forms when ancient tree resin is buried, chemically altered, and polymerized over millions of years; Baltic amber is mainly Eocene–Oligocene, about 34–56 million years old. Common sources include the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, Myanmar, Mexico, and Indonesia.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, cabochons, ornaments, and scientific specimens; pieces containing insects or plants can be especially collectible.

Geological facts

Amber is exceptionally light and may float in salt water; it becomes electrostatically charged when rubbed and softens or gives a pine-like odor when gently heated. The image alone cannot confirm natural amber versus copal or synthetic resin.

Field identification & locations

Identify by low density, warm feel, resinous appearance, conchoidal fracture, and static charge; a UV light may produce blue-white fluorescence. Common amber is widely sold in polished forms.