mineral

Amber

Succinite (organic mineraloid); Chemical formula: C10H16O

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water)

Hardness: 2
Color: Honey yellow to orange-brown
Luster: Resinous

Identified March 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Honey yellow to orange-brown; Luster: Resinous; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 1.05-1.10 (floats in salt water)

Formation & geological history

Formed from the fossilization of plant resin from extinct coniferous trees, primarily during the Eocene epoch (approx. 30-50 million years ago); categorized as an organic mineraloid rather than a mineral.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in jewelry, beads, and luxury decorative objects; also scientifically important for preserving botanical and insect inclusions.

Geological facts

Amber is one of the few organic 'gemstones'. It is exceptionally lightweight and warm to the touch compared to stone. When rubbed with a cloth, it generates a static charge, which is why the Greek word for amber, 'elektron', is the root for the word 'electricity'.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its low density (feels like plastic), resinous luster, and ability to float in a saturated salt-water solution. Baltic region (Poland, Russia, Lithuania) and the Dominican Republic are the most famous locations for discovery.

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