mineral

Amber

Succinates (Organic Fossilized Resin)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to reddish-orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10

Hardness: 2
Color: Honey-yellow to reddish-orange
Luster: Resinous

Identified May 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Mohs scale; Color: Honey-yellow to reddish-orange; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilization of tree resin from extinct coniferous trees, typically dating back 30 to 90 million years during the Eocene to Cretaceous periods. It undergoes polymerization over millions of years after being buried in sediment.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry, as decorative objects, and for scientific research due to inclusions (insects or plants). Also used historically in perfume and as a source of succinic acid.

Geological facts

Amber is not a true mineral because it is organic. It is famous for trapping prehistoric organisms in near-perfect detail. If rubbed against cloth, it develops a static charge, a property that led to the Greek word for amber, elektron, giving us the word 'electricity.'

Field identification & locations

Field identification involves checking for a resinous feel and testing for buoyancy (it floats in saltwater). It is commonly found in the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar. Common in coastal areas after storms.