Honey jar amber light

Amber, fossilized tree resin from the Cenozoic era, is renowned for its warm golden hues and ability to preserve prehistoric insects and plants.

About this subject

Amber is a fossilized resin produced by conifers and other trees millions of years ago. After secretion, the resin underwent polymerization and fossilization, turning into a hard, translucent material. The main sources of amber are the Baltic region (Baltic amber), aged 40 to 50 million years, and the Dominican Republic, with younger deposits around 20 million years.

Beyond its beauty, amber is scientifically valuable for frequently containing inclusions of ancient organisms, such as insects, leaves, and even small vertebrates. These inclusions offer a unique window into past ecosystems, enabling studies in evolution and paleobiology. Amber is also used in jewelry and ornamental objects, polished into rounded shapes or faceted.

An interesting curiosity is that amber can exhibit electrical properties: when rubbed, it attracts small particles, a phenomenon known since Ancient Greece (the word "electricity" derives from the Greek "elektron," meaning amber). Additionally, amber was believed to have medicinal properties, used in amulets and elixirs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is amber?

Amber is fossilized tree resin, formed millions of years ago. It is considered an organic gemstone, not a mineral, and valued for its color and inclusions.

How old is amber?

Amber can be 20 to 50 million years old, depending on the source. Baltic amber is older (40-50 Ma) while Dominican amber is younger (about 20 Ma).

What can be found inside amber?

Insects, spiders, leaves, feathers, and even small reptiles can be preserved. These inclusions are rare and scientifically important.