Rock Identifier
Likely polished amber or amber-like resin specimen (Amber (fossilized plant resin), chiefly polymerized diterpenoid resin; exact identification uncertain from the image) — gemstone
gemstone

Likely polished amber or amber-like resin specimen

Amber (fossilized plant resin), chiefly polymerized diterpenoid resin; exact identification uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The specimen appears orange-yellow, translucent, and strongly glowing under illumination, with a dark reddish-brown edge. Amber has Mohs hardness 2–2.5, resinous luster, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 1.05–1.10; the photograph may also represent treated amber or plastic imitation.

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Physical properties

The specimen appears orange-yellow, translucent, and strongly glowing under illumination, with a dark reddish-brown edge. Amber has Mohs hardness 2–2.5, resinous luster, conchoidal fracture, no cleavage, and specific gravity about 1.05–1.10; the photograph may also represent treated amber or plastic imitation.

Formation & geological history

Amber formed when ancient tree resin was buried, polymerized, and preserved in sediment, commonly during the Cretaceous–Neogene (roughly 145–2.6 million years ago). Major deposits occur in Baltic-region Paleogene sediments, the Dominican Republic, Myanmar, Mexico, and Indonesia.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornaments, and scientific inclusions; historically used as incense and varnish. Common polished pieces generally have modest value.

Geological facts

Amber often fluoresces blue, green, or yellow under ultraviolet light and may contain insects, plant fragments, or gas bubbles. It floats in concentrated salt water, unlike most mineral gemstones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by very low weight, warm feel, static attraction after rubbing, resinous odor when gently warmed, and softness; avoid destructive tests. A professional gemologist can distinguish it from copal or plastic using FTIR.