Amber: The Golden Gem of the Ages

Amber, with its warm golden glow and ancient origins, has captivated humanity for millennia. More than just a gemstone, amber is fossilized tree resin that holds within it a history stretching back millions of years. Used in jewellery, medicine, and talismans, amber is as rich in lore as it is in beauty.

Origins of Amber

Amber is formed from the resin of ancient trees, which, over millions of years, undergoes fossilization. This process can take anywhere from a few million to over 100 million years. The most famous sources of amber are the Baltic region, particularly in countries such as Poland, Russia, and Lithuania. Other significant deposits exist in the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Myanmar (Burma), and even some parts of the UK.

One of amber’s most fascinating aspects is its ability to trap and preserve ancient life. Insects, leaves, and even small creatures have been discovered encased in amber, providing an extraordinary window into prehistoric ecosystems.

Colours of Amber

While amber is most commonly associated with a rich golden-orange hue, it actually occurs in a variety of shades:

• Golden Yellow & Honey: The most common shades, warm and radiant.

• Cherry & Red: A rarer variety, formed through oxidation.

• Green: Found primarily in the Dominican Republic and achieved through unique mineral inclusions.

• Blue: One of the rarest forms, displaying a mesmerizing blue glow under natural sunlight.

• White & Bone: A milky, clouded form of amber due to microscopic air bubbles.

• Black: Often a mix of fossilised resin and organic materials like tree bark.

Symbolic Meanings of Amber

Amber has been cherished not only for its beauty but also for its deep symbolic and metaphysical significance.

• Protection & Healing: Ancient civilizations believed amber had the power to ward off evil spirits and protect against illness. In many cultures, it was used as an amulet for good luck and safeguarding children.

• Warmth & Vitality: Its golden hues have long been associated with the sun, radiating warmth, energy, and positivity.

• Purification & Cleansing: Many spiritual traditions use amber to cleanse negative energy, both physically and emotionally.

• Wisdom & Memory: Due to its ability to preserve ancient life, amber is often linked to wisdom, ancestry, and the passage of time.

Historical Significance of Amber

Amber has played a significant role in human history for thousands of years.

• Prehistoric Use: Amber beads dating back over 13,000 years have been found in archaeological sites, suggesting its early use in jewelry and ritual objects.

• Ancient Trade Routes: The famed “Amber Road” was a crucial trade route connecting the Baltic region with the Mediterranean, where amber was highly prized by the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians.

• Greek & Roman Era: The Greeks called amber “Elektron” (the root of the word electricity) due to its ability to generate static charge. The Romans valued amber so highly that it was considered more precious than gold.

• Medieval & Renaissance Europe: Amber was often carved into religious relics, rosaries, and medicinal amulets, believed to ward off disease and bring divine blessings.

• Chinese & Eastern Traditions: In China, amber was associated with the soul of the tiger and symbolized courage and protection. It was also ground into powders for medicinal use.

Amber in Medicine: A Historic Remedy

Amber has been valued for its supposed healing properties for centuries. Ancient civilisations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Chinese, believed amber had medicinal benefits and used it in various forms, from powders and tinctures to amulets worn for protection.

Amber in Traditional Medicine

• Ancient Greece & Rome – Physicians like Hippocrates documented amber’s uses in treating ailments such as digestive issues, respiratory problems, and joint pain. Amber powder was sometimes mixed with honey or wine as a remedy.

• Medieval Europe – Amber amulets were worn to ward off illness, and amber smoke was thought to purify the air and prevent infections. During the Black Death, people carried amber beads, believing they offered protection from disease.

• Chinese Medicine – Amber (known as “Hu Po”) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for calming the mind, relieving anxiety, and treating blood disorders. It is often ground into a fine powder and combined with herbal remedies.

Baltic Amber and Succinic Acid

Baltic amber, in particular, contains succinic acid, a naturally occurring compound believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This has led to the popularity of amber teething necklaces, which some claim help soothe teething pain in infants by releasing succinic acid when warmed against the skin. While scientific studies on this effect are limited, the tradition remains popular among parents seeking natural remedies.

Modern Uses and Skepticism

While amber has a long history in folk medicine, modern science does not fully support all of its traditional claims. However, succinic acid is still used in some pharmaceutical and skincare products for its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

What is Reconstituted Amber?

Reconstituted amber, also known as pressed amber, is a type of amber that has been processed by heating and compressing small amber fragments or amber dust. This process fuses the pieces together, often under high pressure, to create a solid piece of material that can be shaped into jewelry or decorative items.

While natural amber forms over millions of years, reconstituted amber is made from natural resin fragments that are too small to be used individually. These pieces are softened and then molded into beads, cabochons, or other shapes. Sometimes, dyes or additional materials are added to enhance the color or clarity.

Is Reconstituted Amber Real Amber?

Yes, reconstituted amber is still derived from natural amber resin, so it is considered genuine amber. However, because it undergoes processing, it is not the same as solid, unaltered amber that has remained in its natural state.

Quality and Value of Reconstituted Amber

Reconstituted amber can look very similar to natural amber and often has fewer visible inclusions or imperfections. However, it is generally considered less valuable than natural amber because it lacks the unique characteristics and historical authenticity of unaltered pieces. High-quality reconstituted amber can still be beautiful and durable, making it an affordable alternative for those who want the look of amber without the higher price tag.

When purchasing amber, it’s important to ask whether it is natural or reconstituted, especially if you are looking for collectible or investment-grade pieces. 

Caring for Amber Jewellery

Amber is a delicate and organic gemstone, meaning it requires special care to maintain its beauty. Unlike minerals, amber is relatively soft (ranking 2–2.5 on the Mohs hardness scale) and can be easily scratched, damaged by chemicals, or affected by heat. Here are some essential tips to care for your amber jewellery:

1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Amber is sensitive to perfumes, hairsprays, lotions, and cleaning products. Always apply cosmetics before putting on your amber jewelry, and avoid exposing it to household cleaners or harsh chemicals.

2. Keep It Away from Heat

Amber can become brittle or even crack if exposed to high temperatures or prolonged direct sunlight. Store it in a cool, dry place away from radiators, windows, or heated surfaces.

3. Clean Gently

To clean amber, use a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, steamers, or abrasive materials. If needed, you can wash it with mild soapy water, but be sure to dry it immediately with a soft cloth.

4. Store Separately

Since amber is relatively soft, store it separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches. Keeping it in a fabric-lined jewelry box or a soft pouch is ideal.

5. Polish Occasionally

Over time, amber can lose its shine. You can gently polish it using a microfiber cloth or a drop of olive oil to restore its luster. Buff lightly to remove excess oil.

Amber Today

Today, amber remains a beloved gemstone, admired for its warmth, natural beauty, and connection to the past. It is commonly used in jewelry, often set in sterling silver or gold, and is also prized by collectors for its inclusions. Baltic amber is still used in traditional medicine, particularly in the form of amber teething necklaces for infants, though their effectiveness remains debated.

Amber is a gemstone unlike any other—a true piece of prehistoric history, frozen in time yet radiating warmth and energy. Whether worn as a talisman, admired for its organic beauty, or treasured as a link to the past, amber continues to enchant and inspire across cultures and generations.

Amber Jewellery in the Twelve Silver Trees Collection

At Twelve Silver Trees, we celebrate the natural beauty of amber with handcrafted sterling silver settings that enhance its warm, glowing tones. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a delicate everyday accessory, amber jewellery brings a timeless elegance to any collection.

Amber is more than just a gemstone—it’s a connection to the past, a symbol of warmth and vitality, and a timeless addition to any jewellery collection. Explore our Baltic Amber Collection  and find the perfect amber piece to treasure forever.

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