Amber properties and characteristics

Light and translucent, amber brings to mind the sweet viscosity of the millefiori and the preciousness of a treasure. Contrary to what one might think, it is an amorphous and delicate substance, whose malleability makes it perfect for the packaging of unmistakable precious items. In today's article Amber properties and characteristics we will discover all the peculiarities, properties and also some curiosities. Read more.

Where is amber found in nature?

Amber is a fossil resin . Originating from prehistoric trees, such as Pinus Succinifera , its traces date back to the Mesozoic era. After being released by conifers in the form of a mixture of organic compounds, it fossilizes, sometimes trapping plant and animal remains inside it.

Most of the Amber we use today comes from the Baltics, which are considered its primary deposit. It is therefore collected in countries such as Poland, Latvia, Denmark but not only. It is possible to find amber, for example, also in places such as Sicily or southern Mexico.

How to recognize amber?

Although it is a truly unique substance, amber can be easily imitated. For this reason, it is important to purchase it from Certified Retailers and only relying on expert personnel . Do you have doubts or questions about the authenticity of your precious and semi-precious stones? Our accredited gemologists are at your disposal.

There are several tests that can be performed in order to recognize the authenticity of this resin, here are the main ones.

Buoyancy : When immersed in a highly saline solution, amber tends to float;
Heating : when exposed to heat sources, amber does not blacken or give off a bad odor. On the contrary, its aroma is particularly pleasant;
Electrostatics : when rubbed for a few dozen seconds with a cloth, preferably woolen, amber becomes charged and has the power to attract, for example, hair or small scraps of paper.

Difference between Amber and Copal

Copal is a substance physically very similar to amber, however its ripening is younger: the amberization process has just begun .

It usually has much more evident inclusions . In addition, its appearance is more opaque and its soft consistency makes it highly soluble. The color of copal is not particularly affected by exposure to short waves (UV), while amber responds to the stimulus with a triumph of fluorescent bluish tones. Finally, unlike Baltic Amber which is rich in it, copal does not contain succinic acid , the beneficial heart of amber. It is therefore obvious to say that the market value of amber, compared to that of the newborn copal, is much greater.

Amber properties and beneficial powers

Since ancient times , remarkable virtues and properties have been attributed to amber. Such as:

Balancing properties : it is said to have the ability to rebalance the psyche, allowing vital energy to flow and stimulating the attraction of positive experiences;
Energy Source : Amber is considered a powerful means of connection with the Higher Soul of the Universe and is believed to have the ability to transmute negative energies, transforming them into their opposite.

Finally, amber is attributed with detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties, believing that it can promote and preserve general health.

How to wear amber: tips and curiosities

Amber can be worn in the form of bracelets, earrings, necklaces. Combined with other stones and pearls or alone, it is perfect for making custom jewelry . Not only that, here is a curiosity revealed: amber is a welcome gift for an expectant mother , as it can help her disperse energy blocks, promoting well-being and relaxation. That's not all. In the form of a necklace or bracelet, it can also be worn by the unborn child in the future: worn during teething, it will have a soothing and calming effect.