gemstone

Tumbled amber

Amber (fossilized plant resin; predominantly polymerized succinite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 2–2.5; translucent honey-orange to reddish-brown color with resinous to vitreous luster. Amorphous, noncrystalline, very low density (about 1.05–1.10), with conchoidal fracture and no cleavage.

Identified August 30, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber formed when ancient conifer or flowering-plant resin was buried, chemically altered, and polymerized over tens of millions of years; this specimen’s exact age and locality cannot be determined visually. Major deposits include the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Myanmar, and Indonesia.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornaments, and scientific inclusions; it is also widely collected. It is soft and heat-sensitive, so it is unsuitable for heavy-wear jewelry without protection.

Geological facts

Amber may contain fossil insects, plant fragments, or bubbles and commonly floats in salt water. Warmed amber can produce a pine-like odor and attract light debris after rubbing due to static electricity.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unusually light weight, warm feel, resinous appearance, softness, and static charge; beware of copal, plastic, and reconstructed amber imitations. The polished, opaque reddish-brown piece shown is likely common commercial amber.