gemstone

Tumbled amber

Fossilized plant resin; commonly succinite (C10H16O)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness about 2–2.5; translucent honey-brown to reddish-brown with resinous luster, rounded by tumbling, and commonly containing flow lines or inclusions. It is amorphous rather than crystalline, with very low density (about 1.05–1.10).

Identified September 2, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber formed when ancient trees exuded resin that was buried, chemically matured, and polymerized over roughly 20–100+ million years. The appearance is consistent with Baltic-type amber, though an exact locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornaments, and scientific inclusions; high-quality pieces are collectible, especially those containing insects or plants.

Geological facts

Amber is organic rather than a true mineral and can preserve remarkable fossils. It becomes electrostatically charged when rubbed and may fluoresce blue, green, or yellow under ultraviolet light.

Field identification & locations

Likely amber if it is unusually light, warm to the touch, floats in concentrated salt water, attracts paper after rubbing, and softens or produces a pine-like odor when carefully tested; avoid destructive tests. Common sources include the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, Myanmar, Mexico, and Indonesia.