gemstone

Polished amber

Fossilized plant resin (amber; primarily cross-linked terpenoid resin)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Honey-brown to orange, translucent, resinous luster with flow-like internal textures and inclusions; amorphous rather than crystalline. Mohs hardness about 2–2.5, very low density (approximately 1.05–1.10), brittle, and electrostatic when rubbed.

Identified August 28, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber formed from ancient conifer and flowering-plant resin that was buried, chemically altered, and hardened over millions of years; major deposits range from roughly 15–100 million years old. The specimen appears shaped and polished.

Uses & applications

Used for jewelry, ornaments, carvings, scientific inclusions, and collector specimens; its low hardness makes it unsuitable for construction.

Geological facts

Amber commonly fluoresces blue, green, or yellow under long-wave ultraviolet light and may contain fossil insects or plant fragments. Genuine amber floats in concentrated saltwater and softens or gives a pine-like odor when gently warmed.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Baltic-region deposits, the Dominican Republic, Myanmar, Mexico, and Indonesia. Distinguish it from glass or plastic by its low density, warm tactile feel, electrostatic charge, and scratchability with a fingernail.