Amber (pronounced AM-bur) is 50-million-year-old, fossilized tree sap (resin) from prehistoric pine forests. The pine trees are thought to have released the sap as a defense against fungus and insect infestation. The molecules in the sap cross-linked, eventually forming the natural "plastic" we know as amber today.

One of the fascinating properties of amber is its electrostatism: the old Roman author and scientist Pliny the Elder was writing about amber's ability to carry static electricity back in 79 AD!

Sometimes, raw amber will contain encased insects, leaves, twigs, flowers, mammalian hair and other organic matter. Pieces containing this material are generally considered more valuable than those without, especially when an entire organism is preserved.

Only 15% of the amber mined today is suitable for jewelry. The remainder is generally used to make "amberoid," a natural-looking pressed form of amber. This material is welded at 284 - 482 degrees Fahrenheit and 3000 atmospheres pressure into a substance that can be easily confused with natural amber.

To determine whether amber is natural or has been combined with resin stabilizers, place the gem in a glass of warm salt water. Natural amber will float, whereas synthesized amber will sink. Another technique for distinguishing between natural and synthesized amber is to heat the tip of a sewing needle until it is white hot. Then, insert the needle into the amber (preferably on the backside of the gem). If a pine scent emits, the amber is likely all-natural. Ambroid will emit an aroma of burning plastic.

The largest deposits of natural amber are along the coasts of Poland, Germany and Russia. Ancient rivers carried the resin deposits downstream from the forest regions to the seabeds, where it was buried under hundreds of feet of sand. Other sources of amber are located in Sicily, Romania, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and along the eastern coast of the United States.

Proper Care of Amber

Amber is a highly sensitive gem and must be cared for delicately. It is easily scratched (watch your fingernails!) and affected by chemicals, abrasives, acids, caustic solutions, alcohol and perfume. It is also flammable and can be ignited with a direct flame! Steamers, hot water and ultrasonic cleaners can damage this gem. To clean amber, use mild soap, room temperature tap water and a very soft cloth.