Although amber jewelry boasts many remarkable qualities, it tends to be less well-known compared to other types of jewelry. Here are 5 crucial facts about amber jewelry you should be aware of.
Keyword(s): amber jewelry
While diamonds may be highly cherished, other gemstones like amber also deserve attention. Amber jewelry might not be as popular, but it is a versatile and stunning addition to any collection.
Thanks to its lightweight nature, amber jewelry is ideal for daily wear as well as more sophisticated signature pieces. Keep reading to discover five surprising facts about amber that explain why it is such a fantastic choice for jewelry.
1. Amber Isn’t a Stone
Unlike most semi-precious gems, amber is not a mineral. Considered a gemstone, amber is actually an organic compound derived from ancient, hardened tree resin.
Trees secrete resin to protect themselves from insects and weather damage. When a crack forms in the bark, the tree oozes resin to seal the gap and prevent further harm.
The fossilized resin we use today in amber jewelry has been buried underground for millions of years, where it hardened into pieces resembling stones. Most of today’s amber is sourced from Europe, particularly around the Baltic Sea.
Because amber is very lightweight, it floats in saltwater, which allows it to wash up on Baltic Sea shores where it is easy to collect. Its lightness makes it perfect for creating larger jewelry pieces. When wearing amber jewelry, you can opt for bold, statement pieces without feeling weighed down.
2. Amber Comes in Various Colors
Although honey-brown is the most common hue, amber actually comes in eight different shades. The rarest type of amber is green, accounting for only about 2% of the world’s amber. Unlike emeralds or peridots, green amber is darker and more opaque, often featuring brown undertones.
As amber ages, it tends to turn into a luminous dark orange. Russia’s famous Amber Room in the Catherine Palace near St. Petersburg is one notable example of this color.
Each amber shade makes a unique statement, from earth tones to vivid yellows. Amber’s natural glow complements any skin tone, and its inclusions and imperfections make each piece unique. The more irregular its interior surfaces, the more light it captures, making the gem appear to glow from within.
Lighter shades of amber make it easier to see these inclusions and imperfections.
3. Amber Jewelry Has Ancient Roots
While amber jewelry has recently been gaining attention, it has been worn for thousands of years. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed that amber represented the solidified tears of gods or rays of the sun.
Ancient cultures also thought that amber had healing properties. Baltic amber contains succinic acid, which many believed could reduce inflammation, ease pain, or provide protection to the wearer.
Although scientific backing is limited, these beliefs add to the rich history of amber jewelry. Wearing amber jewelry connects you to a legacy of powerful folklore.
4. Amber Jewelry Is Warm and Easy to Shape
Unlike other gemstones, amber feels warm to the touch and quickly absorbs your body heat, offering comfort from the moment you put it on.
Since it is not a stone, amber is easier to carve into various shapes. One of the most appealing qualities of amber jewelry is its versatility in design, ranging from teardrops and spheres to complex forms like flowers or sunbursts.
Each piece of amber jewelry is unique due to the natural imperfections within the resin layers, making it impossible to replicate. Although you can match the color and shape, the internal irregularities give each amber piece a distinct appearance.
Why choose amber jewelry? Its warm, lightweight characteristics make it suitable for everyday wear and special occasions. You can customize its size and shape to suit your style, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
5. Baltic Amber Is the Pinnacle of Quality
Although fossilized tree resin is found globally, the highest quality amber comes from the Baltic Sea region. Baltic Amber is among the oldest varieties and is more likely to contain inclusions of preserved insects or plant matter, making it valuable for both jewelry and scientific research.
Most Baltic amber is sourced from countries such as Russia, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Historical evidence shows that Baltic amber was highly esteemed long ago, even appearing in ancient Egyptian tombs of wealthy individuals.
Beware of “amber” jewelry from other regions that may not actually be amber. Substances like copal, a cheaper alternative, also come from tree resin but are much younger and less durable. Over time, copal can become sticky. For the best quality, always look for authentic Baltic amber.
Find High-Quality, Authentic Amber Jewelry
Artful Bracelets offers a wide selection of elegant, timeless amber jewelry. Whether you seek a bold bracelet or sophisticated earrings, you’ll find unique amber pieces that suit your style.
Delve into the fascinating history and significance of amber. Visit the Artful Bracelets blog to learn more about this extraordinary gem and its use in jewelry.
