Amber

Gemstone Properties
PRODUCT NAME: Amber Chemical Composition: COOH(CH2)2COOH15
MOHS Hardness: 2.0-2.5 Specific Gravity: 1.05-1.1
Refractive Index: 1.54 Other Information: Info here
Common Enhancements: None Special Care: Avoid Abrasion, Chemicals, Ultrasonic cleaning

Amber is a hard translucent yellow to brownish yellow fossilized tree resin that has hardened in the earth’s crust for millions of years.  Amber also occurs in red, green and blue colors which are rare and highly prized.

Amber with Insects

Amber with Insects

Resin, not to be confused with sap, is exuded by the plant as a protection from injury or insect infestation. Because it originated as a sticky substance, amber is sometimes found with plant material or insects preserved within.

Polished Amber

Polished Amber

Amber is mainly found in the Baltic Sea area and the Dominican Republic. Specimens from the Baltic region are usually older while Amber found in the Dominican Republic is more likely to have insect or plant inclusions.

The ancients used Amber for healing remedies and it is said to improve eyesight by gazing into it.