Organic Gems · uncommon
Amber
Amber is fossilized tree resin, typically 30-90 million years old. It often contains preserved insects and plants, providing windows into prehistoric life.
Also known as: fossilized resin, baltic amber, insect inclusions.
Amber properties at a glance
| Type | Organic Gems |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | C10H16O+(H2S) |
| Mohs hardness | 2.5 |
| Crystal system | amorphous |
| Luster | resinous |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 1.1 |
| Transparency | transparent |
| Common colors | Yellow, Orange, Brown, Red, Green, Blue |
| Rarity | uncommon |
Geology & background
Forms from fossilized tree resin that polymerizes over millions of years.
The word 'electricity' comes from 'elektron,' the Greek word for amber.
How to identify Amber
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Amber examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Amber identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Amber vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Amber.
Where Amber is found
Amber is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Amber worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $20 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $100 |
| Premium specimen | $5000+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Scientific specimens
- Decorative objects
Interesting facts
- Can preserve ancient insects and plants for millions of years
- Baltic amber is 44 million years old
- Greeks discovered static electricity by rubbing amber
Care & safety
Treat Amber as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Amber FAQ
What is Amber?
Amber is fossilized tree resin, typically 30-90 million years old. It often contains preserved insects and plants, providing windows into prehistoric life.
How much is Amber worth?
Entry-level Amber specimens sell for around $20, a typical collector specimen for about $100, and premium pieces for $5000 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Amber?
Amber has a Mohs hardness of 2.5. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
Where is Amber found?
Notable sources of Amber include Baltic Region, Dominican Republic, Myanmar, and Mexico. Forms from fossilized tree resin that polymerizes over millions of years..
What is Amber used for?
Amber is used for jewelry, scientific specimens, and decorative objects.
