Copalite is a semi-fossilized tree resin that is younger and less polymerized than true amber. It is commonly identified by its solubility in organic solvents like alcohol and its lower melting point, often showing a sticky surface when solvent is applied.

Hardness

2-2.5

Mohs

Luster

Resinous

Streak

White

Transparency

Transparent

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Copalite

Also: Highgate Resin, Fossil Copal

Hardness: 2-2.5
Luster: Resinous
Streak: White
Transparency: Transparent

Is this copalite?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch copalite with a known reference. Copalite sits at Mohs 2-2.5, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Copalite leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Copalite typically shows a resinous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, orange, brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: amorphous. Typical habit: massive.

Often confused with

Copalite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.

All properties

Mohs hardness: 2-2.5
Density: 1.05-1.07 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Orange Brown
Streak: White
Luster: Resinous
Transparency: Transparent
Crystal system: Amorphous
Crystal habit: Massive
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Common
Uses: Collector, Decorative
Host rock: Sedimentary Deposits
Typical price: $5-50 specimens

Where rockhounds find copalite

1 mapped spots

Classic worldwide localities

Colombia
Madagascar
Tanzania
Dominican Republic
United Kingdom

Field-hunting tip

Look in sedimentary deposits country, the host setting where copalite typically forms. Field specimens usually show a massive habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop. In the U.S., the densest reported localities are in Utah. Start trip planning there.

Browse 1 U.S. spots for copalite →

More copalite photos

Common questions

How do you identify copalite?+

Mohs hardness is 2-2.5. It typically shows a resinous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, orange, brown.

Where is copalite found?+

Notable localities include Colombia; Madagascar; Tanzania; Dominican Republic; United Kingdom.

Can I find copalite in the United States?+

RockHoundR maps 1 copalite rockhounding spots across 1 U.S. states. The top states are Utah.

How much is copalite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $5-50 specimens. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

What rocks look like copalite?+

Copalite is most often confused with Amber. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What kind of rock does copalite form in?+

Copalite typically forms in sedimentary deposits. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is copalite used for?+

Copalite is used in collector, decorative.

Find copalite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.