gemstone

Polished amber

Amber (fossilized plant resin; commonly succinite, C₁₀H₁₆O)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Honey-brown to reddish-brown, transparent to translucent, resinous luster, amorphous rather than crystalline; Mohs hardness 2–2.5, very light (specific gravity about 1.05–1.10), and lacks cleavage. The smooth, rounded surface indicates polishing or tumbling.

Identified August 30, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber formed from tree resin buried in sediments and chemically altered over tens of millions of years, commonly during the Cretaceous to Paleogene. The exact locality cannot be determined from the image; Baltic and Dominican amber are major sources.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornaments, and scientific specimens; it is valued more for clarity, color, inclusions, and origin than durability. It is unsuitable for heavy-wear jewelry because it scratches easily.

Geological facts

Amber may contain fossil insects, plant fragments, or gas bubbles. It floats in concentrated salt water and produces a pine-like odor when gently warmed; these tests should be performed cautiously to avoid damage.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unusually low weight, warm resinous appearance, softness, electrostatic charge when rubbed, and lack of crystalline facets. Common deposits occur around the Baltic Sea, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Myanmar, and Indonesia.