Amber which is made from hardened tree resin is a gem. Although amber is often used in jewelry it is not a mineral. Which statement explains why amber is not a mineral?

A. It is not natural
B. It is not solid
C. It is not valuable
D. It is not inorganic

D. It is not inorganic

The correct answer is D. It is not inorganic.

To understand why amber is not considered a mineral, let's break down the characteristics of a mineral. A mineral is a solid, inorganic substance that occurs naturally. Inorganic means that it is not derived from living organisms. Although amber is solid and occurs naturally, it is formed from the hardened resin of ancient trees, making it a fossilized organic material. Since amber is of organic origin, it does not meet the criteria of being inorganic, thereby making it not a mineral.