Amber exerts a mystical force -- it travels the world and has been a treasured item of trade since the Iron Age. Prehistoric people carved amber into animals. Many cultures make protective talismans out of amber and it has a reputation as a healing stone.
For a few years I imported and sold jewelry made of silver and natural stones. When I was a kid, I learned about fossils and minerals -- and I never stopped noticing and finding out about stones and natural things that inspire me. Amber gripped my imagination years ago -- and hasn't let go. The power of this resin to take captives and preserve them through time -- beetles, spiders -- even lizards and other small animals.
Amber is fossilized resin. People have been writing about amber since the 17th century. Countries along the Baltic sea collect and export it, and it's found in many other areas as well. The deposits sometimes occur with coal, and sometimes come in ring forms, at the base of where an ancient tree stood. Although some amber resembles sap, it's actually a resin. The resin comes from ancient plant material. It can be clear or cloudy. Certain pieces of amber contain bubbles, when air is trapped in it. It's often pale amber and shades of honey, but it also comes in yellow, deep orange and dark brown. It sometimes has dark flecks in it, and some pieces contain plant material.
The challenge in choosing amber jewelry is in locating genuine amber. Some vendors offer certified genuine amber, so that you can have quality assurance. There are many suppliers of fake amber. Although some are honest about it, selling insects in amber colored plastic, others are deceptive, selling faux amber at the prices of genuine amber.
Amber makes glowing earrings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets and rings. It's prized by women and men for its rich appearance. It's lightweight, luminous and appears as magical as the legends say.
Here's my article and shopping guide for amber Christmas gifts: Jewelry -- Amber Secrets: Best Gifts for Her
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