gemstone

Yellow amber

Amber; fossilized plant resin, commonly succinite (not a mineral)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 2–2.5; honey-yellow to orange-brown, translucent, resinous to waxy luster, amorphous structure, conchoidal fracture, very low density (~1.05–1.10). The specimen appears rough and naturally weathered, though identification from an image is limited.

Identified September 14, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Amber formed from ancient tree resin that polymerized and fossilized in sediments, commonly during the Cretaceous–Tertiary; Baltic amber is chiefly Eocene (~44–38 million years old).

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornaments, and scientific inclusions; historically used as incense and folk medicine. It has little industrial or construction use.

Geological facts

Amber may contain preserved insects, plant fragments, or air bubbles and becomes electrostatically charged when rubbed. Common imitations include copal, plastic, and pressed amber.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include the Baltic region, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Myanmar, and coastal sediments worldwide. Field clues are low weight, warm feel, resinous luster, possible fluorescence, and floating in concentrated saltwater; avoid destructive tests.