Amber
Amber — Fossilised Resin and a Story from the Past
Amber is an organic material formed from tree resin that has undergone fossilisation. Unlike mineral gemstones, it originates in the plant world.
Its warm colours, light weight and preserved inclusions give it a distinctive appearance. Some specimens contain plant remains, insects and even prehistoric water trapped in the resin before it fossilised.
Gemological Properties
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Material type | Organic material — fossilised tree resin |
| Main composition | A mixture of organic compounds based mainly on carbon, hydrogen and oxygen — C, H, O |
| Common colours | Yellow, orange and brown |
| Hardness | 2–2.5 on the Mohs scale |
| Typical refractive index | Approximately 1.540 |
| Typical specific gravity | Approximately 1.08 |
| Appearance | Transparent, cloudy or opaque, depending on the material and inclusions |
These are reference values. Amber has a complex organic composition, so a single molecular formula does not describe all varieties.
How Old Is Amber, and How Does It Differ from Copal?
Amber is tree resin that has undergone fossilisation and maturation over geological time. Many amber deposits are tens of millions of years old. Copal is younger resin that is generally at a less advanced stage of maturation and hardening.
GIA’s gemological description distinguishes amber older than one million years from copal younger than one million years. However, there is no single age threshold agreed upon throughout the scientific literature: the distinction also relates to chemical structure and degree of maturation, influenced by the resin’s origin and the conditions it has experienced. Age alone is therefore insufficient to classify the material.
Inclusions — A Window into an Ancient World
Amber inclusions may include gas bubbles, water inclusions, plant fragments and animal remains. Numerous bubbles can give it a cloudy appearance.
An interesting inclusion may add value, but it is important to establish that it is original and was not added later.
Treatments, Pressed Amber and Imitations
Amber may undergo treatments to change colour and transparency. Heating can also create reflective, disc-like inclusions.
Pressed or reconstructed amber is made by joining amber pieces using heat and pressure. It should be distinguished from a natural piece that has not been assembled from fragments. Imitations also exist, so appearance alone is insufficient for identification.
Flotation Testing — An Initial Clue
Amber generally sinks in fresh water and floats in a concentrated salt solution, because its specific gravity is slightly higher than that of fresh water and lower than that of the solution. Ordinary seawater is not necessarily salty enough for this test. The test is intended for a loose piece, without a chain or setting that affects its weight.
Floating does not prove that a material is amber: copal and some plastic imitations may also float. This is an auxiliary test, not a substitute for gemological identification.
Odour Testing through Heating
Heating amber may release a characteristic tree-resin smell. This test may leave a mark, alter the surface or damage the material, so it is not recommended as a home test. If a professional chooses to perform it, it should be done on a small, concealed spot to reduce visible damage.
Setting and Care
Amber is soft and sensitive to scratching and impact. Jewellery design should consider its condition and protect exposed areas.
Keep it away from heat and chemicals. Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap; do not use steam or ultrasonic cleaners.
Sources Around the World
Familiar amber sources include the Baltic region, particularly Poland and Russia, and the Dominican Republic. Material from these sources can differ in age, inclusions and appearance.
Spiritual and Symbolic Meaning — Beliefs and Traditions
Amber is fossilized tree resin.
Amber is the “blood” of the tree, so its energy radiates the essence of the plant world. It can be placed on any painful or unbalanced place on the body, and it will absorb the negative energies.
It is good for dealing with despondency and depression. The warmth within it can melt sadness and stiffness, making it good for people who live in a cold climate and aren't exposed enough to sunlight. It is a symbol of the expression of love and serves as a symbol of the vows of marriage.
Amber helps balance the thyroid gland, and is good for the kidneys and bladder.
These meanings belong to the realm of belief and symbolism. They can give jewellery personal significance, but they are not proven gemological properties or a promise of healing, protection or a change in health.
Amber in Personal Jewellery
At TzurGems Jewelry & Gemstones, we examine the amber and plan a design suited to its shape, colours and delicate nature. Guy’s gemological knowledge and Rafael’s craftsmanship come together to create jewellery that gives amber a central place.
