Amber: The Golden Window to Prehistory – A Complete Guide

How to test real amber vs. copal or plastic?

Introduction

Amber (琥珀 Hǔpò), known in ancient China as “光珠” (Light Pearl) or “獸魄” (Beast’s Soul), is fossilized tree resin that has captivated civilizations for millennia. Archaeological finds—such as Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BCE) beads from Shanxi and Han Dynasty ornaments from Inner Mongolia—reveal its early use in rituals and adornments. The New Treatise on Curiosities (《新增格古要論》) poetically described it as “the essence of maple trees transformed over centuries.”

Physical & Chemical Properties

Composition: C₁₀H₁₆O (succinic acid contributes to its “electrifying” static charge).
Hardness: 2–2.5 on Mohs scale (soft; can be scratched by fingernails).
Density: 1.05–1.10 g/cm³ (floats in saltwater).
Optical Traits:
Refractive Index: 1.54 (similar to glass but warmer luster).
Fluorescence: Blue under UV light (Baltic amber).
Unique Features:
Inclusions: Preserved insects/bubbles (called “虫珀” Chóng pò).
Aroma: Pine-like when heated (authenticity test).

Color Varieties & Value

1. Golden Amber (金珀)

Color: Transparent honey-yellow.
Value: Most prized in Chinese history (e.g., Liao Dynasty princess’s burial artifacts).

2. Cherry Amber (血珀)

Color: Deep red (oxidized surface).
Rarity: Found in Myanmar’s Hukawng Valley.

3. White Amber (白珀)

Color: Creamy, opaque (“royal amber” in Poland).

Grading Criteria:

Clarity: Insect inclusions increase value if well-preserved.
Size: >50g carveable pieces are rare.

Historical & Cultural Significance

Ancient Trade:
Silk Road: Baltic amber reached China as early as 200 BCE.
Han Dynasty: Used in bi discs (璧) for afterlife protection.
European Lore: Called “Northern Gold” by Vikings.

Global Sources

Baltic Region: 90% of world’s supply (45 million years old).
China: Fushun coalfields yield insect-rich amber (Eocene epoch).
Notable Deposits:
Dominican Republic (blue amber).
Myanmar (red amber with Cretaceous insects).

Craftsmanship & Modern Uses

Carving:
Traditional: “Lucky bats” (福 Fú) and cicadas (復活 Fùhuó).
Modern: Laser-engraved pendants.
Jewelry:
Cabochons: Best for fragile pieces.
Warning: Avoid alcohol/perfume to prevent cracking.

Did You Know?
Amber’s electrostatic property inspired the word “electricity” (Greek ēlektron).

Why Amber?

Scientific Value: A time capsule for prehistoric ecosystems.
Aesthetic Appeal: Warm glow unmatched by plastics.

How to test real amber vs. copal or plastic? Explore amber’s journey at VirtuCasa.com.

Amber: The Golden Window to Prehistory – A Complete Guide