Fossilized Amber / Resinite with Sedimentary Matrix
Coniferous tree resin (fossilized tree sap, likely Pinaceae or Agathis cf. amber) • Body fossil / Organic resin preservation (amber inclusion matrix context)
Geological Period
Cretaceous to Paleogene
Estimated Age
Approx. 40 to 99 million years old
Preservation Type
Fossilized organic resin (amber / resinite) preserving unaltered organic polymer structures with adjacent clastic sediment attachment
Condition Assessment
Good. Intact raw nodule with stable resin structure, displaying natural weathering and a fractured base exposing the underlying matrix interface.
Taxonomic Classification
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Pinophyta, Class: Pinopsida, Order: Pinales
Morphological Description
The specimen exhibits an irregular, amorphous nodular shape with a smooth, glossy, reddish-brown translucent upper resinous portion displaying conchoidal fracture patterns. The lower section reveals a stark textural contrast, showing a rough, grainy, greyish-brown clastic matrix attached directly to the amber mass.
Rock Matrix
Fine-grained sandstone or siltstone matrix containing quartz and silicate mineral grains
Formation & Location
Baltic region, Dominican Republic, or Northern Myanmar (Kachin State) amber deposits
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 4 cm x 3 cm x 2.5 cm, typical of medium-sized raw resin nodules
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $80 USD
Auction Estimate
$25 - $60 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common to Uncommon, depending on the precise geographic origin and whether internal biological inclusions are present upon microscopic examination.
Scientific Significance
Fossilized resins are invaluable in paleontology for exceptional preservation of delicate organisms, ancient atmospheric gases, and ecological interactions trapped inside contemporaneous amber deposits.
Preparation Recommendations
Keep in a stable environment away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and volatile organic solvents. Store in padded containers with controlled humidity to prevent crazing or oxidation.
Notable Features
The clear demarcation between the vitreous, warm-toned amber resin and the rough, speckled sedimentary matrix provides a clear view of the raw state of deposition before polishing.