mineral

Yellow-brown translucent mineral fragment, likely citrine or amber

Quartz (SiO₂), if citrine; succinite (fossil resin), if amber

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The specimen is translucent yellow-brown with a vitreous-to-resinous luster and irregular fractured surfaces. Citrine has Mohs hardness 7 and conchoidal fracture; amber is much softer (Mohs 2–2.5), lightweight, and may float in saltwater.

Identified August 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Citrine forms in silica-rich hydrothermal veins or as heat-treated amethyst; natural citrine is uncommon. Amber is fossilized tree resin, generally Cretaceous to Cenozoic in age, commonly from Baltic and Dominican deposits.

Uses & applications

Citrine is used as a gemstone and collector mineral; amber is carved into jewelry and ornaments and valued for inclusions. Neither is typically used in construction.

Geological facts

The image alone cannot reliably distinguish citrine from amber; apparent bubbles or organic inclusions would favor amber, while glassy hardness and quartz-like fracture favor citrine.

Field identification & locations

Common citrine occurs in Brazil, Madagascar, and Zambia; amber is famous from the Baltic region and Dominican Republic. Test cautiously: quartz scratches glass, whereas amber is easily scratched and may produce a resinous odor when gently warmed.