gemstone

Polished amber-like organic gemstone

Likely amber (fossilized plant resin), possibly copal or brown chalcedony; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Translucent honey-brown with dark inclusions and resinous/waxy luster; amorphous, no cleavage, Mohs hardness about 2–2.5 for amber (copal is softer), specific gravity about 1.05–1.10. The smoothly tumbled form and internal cloudy inclusions are consistent with amber, though the image alone cannot exclude chalcedony or…

Identified September 14, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished amber-like organic gemstone
Scientific name: Likely amber (fossilized plant resin), possibly copal or brown chalcedony; exact identification requires testing
Category: gemstone
Identified: September 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$40 for a common polished piece; $50–$500+ if natural, attractive, large, or containing notable inclusions.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber formed from ancient tree resin that polymerized and fossilized during burial, commonly tens to hundreds of millions of years old; copal is geologically younger. Major deposits occur in Baltic-region Paleogene sediments, the Dominican Republic, Myanmar, and elsewhere.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, carvings, cabochons, ornaments, and scientific study of preserved inclusions; industrial use is limited. Chalcedony, if confirmed, is harder and more durable for jewelry.

Geological facts

Amber often floats in concentrated salt water and becomes electrostatically charged when rubbed; heated amber gives a pine-resin odor. A hot-needle test can damage the specimen and should be avoided.

Field identification & locations

Common field clues are very low weight, warm feel, resin odor when safely warmed, and occasional insects or plant fragments; hardness and UV fluorescence help distinguish it from glass and chalcedony.