Rock Identifier
Small polished amber or brown gemstone (Indeterminate from image; possibly amber (fossilized plant resin) or brown chalcedony/quartz) — gemstone
gemstone

Small polished amber or brown gemstone

Indeterminate from image; possibly amber (fossilized plant resin) or brown chalcedony/quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Tiny rounded, translucent brown specimen with a smooth polished surface and resinous-to-glassy luster. If amber, hardness is Mohs 2–2.5 and specific gravity about 1.05–1.10; if chalcedony, hardness is about 7 and specific gravity about 2.6.

Identified More gemstone
Explore Small polished amber or brown gemstone in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Tiny rounded, translucent brown specimen with a smooth polished surface and resinous-to-glassy luster. If amber, hardness is Mohs 2–2.5 and specific gravity about 1.05–1.10; if chalcedony, hardness is about 7 and specific gravity about 2.6.

Formation & geological history

Amber formed from ancient tree resin, commonly during the Cretaceous–Neogene; brown chalcedony formed when silica-rich fluids filled cavities in volcanic or sedimentary rocks. The image alone cannot establish age or composition.

Uses & applications

Amber is used for jewelry and ornaments; brown chalcedony is used in cabochons, beads, carvings, and collections. This very small piece has minimal commercial value.

Geological facts

A warm amber-like appearance is suggestive but not diagnostic. Amber often floats in concentrated salt water, feels unusually light, and may produce a resinous scent when gently warmed; do not heat an unknown specimen.

Field identification & locations

Common amber sources include the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar; chalcedony is widespread globally. Confirm with density, UV response, magnification, and professional gem testing rather than scratching valuable material.