By Ruth
(Continue from last week)
Are insects worth more? This is a common question. The answer is yes—but with important qualifications. Amber containing insects or other ancient organisms is known as inclusion amber. Genuine, naturally preserved insects can be extraordinarily fascinating because they provide a glimpse into prehistoric ecosystems. However, value depends on factors like authenticity, species rarity, completeness, visibility, and preservation quality. A perfectly preserved insect can be worth far more than ordinary amber. At the same time, the market is filled with fakes. Some sellers place modern insects into softened resin or reconstructed amber to imitate natural inclusions. As a result, insect inclusions should be examined carefully before assuming they have significant value.
Because amber is popular and relatively expensive, imitations are common. Common types of fake amber include plastic, resin, copal (young, partially fossilized resin), glass, and pressed amber made from small amber fragments.
Several methods are used to identify genuine amber.
The Weight Test: Amber has low density. A large amber bead often feels lighter than glass or stone of similar dimensions.
The Warmth Test: Amber warms quickly when held in the hand. Glass and stone feel cooler.
The Static Electricity Test: When rubbed with a soft cloth, genuine amber can develop static electricity and attract small pieces of paper. This property gave amber its historical importance and even inspired the word “electricity.”
The UV Light Test: Under ultraviolet light, many pieces of amber fluoresce with a bluish or greenish glow. The exact response varies, but fluorescence can provide useful clues.
The Smell Test: When carefully warmed—not burned—genuine amber releases a pleasant pine-like or resinous scent. Plastic often smells chemical or unpleasant.
The Saltwater Float Test: Amber has a low density and can float in concentrated saltwater. A common mixture is seven to eight teaspoons of salt dissolved in a cup of water. This test should be performed cautiously because some jewelry components may be damaged by saltwater.
Professional Testing: For valuable pieces, professional gemological examination remains the most reliable approach. Experts can distinguish natural amber, pressed amber, copal, and synthetic imitations using specialized equipment. My Baltic cruise reminded me that amber is far more than a souvenir. It is a material with a remarkable geological history, deep cultural significance, and enduring artistic appeal. Whether displayed in museum collections, sold in elegant boutiques, or crafted by hobby jewelers, amber continues to connect us with forests that disappeared millions of years ago. The next time you walk past an amber shop in Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm, or anywhere around the Baltic Sea, remember that every piece carries a story that began long before human history.
