Gemstone profile and identification guide
Amber
Amber is a Golden, Orange organic prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.
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Overview
Amber is a Golden, Orange organic prized for its distinctive beauty, historic appeal, and use in fine jewellery and collector pieces.
Use this profile as a collector reference and educational guide for quick on-page comparison, then validate with the interactive identification system.
Identification
Name: Amber
Scientific classification: Organic
Hardness: 2.5 Mohs
Transparency: opaque
Lustre: resinous
Crystal system: Amorphous
Primary colour: Gold
Secondary colour: Honey
Colour family: Oranges & Yellows
Physical Properties
Hardness category: soft
Hardness value: 2.5 Mohs
Chemical composition: Fossilized tree resin
Crystal system: Amorphous
Common locations: Baltic region, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Myanmar
Learn more: Gem-A gemstone education resources.
Colour Variations
Amber is classified within the oranges & yellows palette. Primary colour: gold. Secondary colour: honey.
Optical effects: None specified in the current dataset.
Formation
Wood resin fossilized over millions of years under burial and low heat.
Origin
Baltic region, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Myanmar
Uses
Best for: Soft jewellery, heirloom carvings, and delicate accessories.
Ideal uses: Gentle settings and occasional wear.
Care
Avoid heat, perfumes, and ultrasonic cleaners. Wipe with a soft cloth after wearing.
Need another candidate? Use advanced gemstone search or return to the identification guide.
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Amber FAQ
How can I identify Amber?
Compare hardness (2.5 Mohs), crystal system (Amorphous), colour profile, and lustre (resinous) with your sample. Then cross-check related gemstones listed above.
What colour range does Amber appear in?
Amber is classified within the oranges & yellows palette. Primary colour: gold. Secondary colour: honey.
Where is Amber commonly used?
Gentle settings and occasional wear.. For maintenance, follow the care guidance in this profile.
Scientific References
Reference data from GIA and Mindat mineral records.