gemstone
Polished amber
Amber (fossilized plant resin; chiefly amorphous organic compounds)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectGolden-brown, translucent, resinous luster; amorphous rather than crystalline; Mohs hardness about 2–2.5. The image appears to show a small polished piece, possibly drilled or cut.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Polished amber in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Golden-brown, translucent, resinous luster; amorphous rather than crystalline; Mohs hardness about 2–2.5. The image appears to show a small polished piece, possibly drilled or cut.
Formation & geological history
Ancient tree resin hardened and fossilized over millions of years, commonly in sedimentary deposits; Baltic amber is largely Eocene in age, about 34–56 million years old.
Uses & applications
Used for beads, pendants, ornaments, and collectible specimens; historically also used for incense and small decorative objects.
Geological facts
Amber is organic fossil resin, not a mineral, and may preserve insects or plant fragments.
Field identification & locations
Warm lightweight feel, low hardness, and electrostatic charge when rubbed help distinguish amber; major sources include the Baltic region, Myanmar, and the Dominican Republic. Similar-looking copal and plastic imitations are common.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Cubic Zirconia (simulant) or Diamond
ZrO2 (Cubic Zirconia) or C (Diamond)
gemstone