gemstone

Raw Amber / Resin Mineral

Succinite (Fossilized Tree Resin)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Honey-brown, brownish-orange, reddish-brown. Luster: Resinoid to vitreous. Crystal structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline). Specific gravity: 1.05-1.09 (floats in salt water).

Hardness: 2
Color: Honey-brown, brownish-orange, reddish-brown
Luster: Resinoid to vitreous

Identified July 26, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the fossilization of plant resins exudated by ancient coniferous trees over millions of years (typically Oligocene to Eocene epochs, 30 to 50 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, carved decorative arts, traditional folk medicine, incense, and scientific research of prehistoric organic inclusions.

Geological facts

Amber is one of the few organic gemstones. It is capable of preserving ancient organic material, such as insects, plant matter, and small organism inclusions, in exquisite detail over millions of years.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its lightweight nature, warmth to the touch, tendency to float in saturated salt water, and distinct piney scent when rubbed vigorously or exposed to a warm needle. Commonly found in Baltic regions, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.

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