Amber
About
Mohs Scale 2 to 2.5
A fossilized hardened resin from ancient pine trees, generally 30 to 90 million years old. Prized for millennia for its beauty and perceived healing powers. A pine-like fragrance can be smelled from heat and friction on the stone, and it generally feels warm to the touch, unlike mineral gemstones. Amber has a very low density, and will float in saltwater. This fossilized amorphous (non-crystalized) sap often includes insects and other inclusions, within its golden and sometimes blue-green colored wonder.
Baltic Amber: Most common, often containing high levels of succinic acid.
Dominican Amber: Known for its transparency and rare blue varieties.
"Bony" Amber: A type of amber that is cloudy due to numerous tiny bubbles.
Pressed Amber (Ambroid): Small, heated, and compressed fragments of amber.
Known as a powerful cleanser and purifier that changes energies for the positive, promoting optimism and joy. Amber contains a grounding energy that reduces stress.
Extensively used for beads, jewelry, art and decor, low-quality amber is used to create varnish and lacquer. Historically used for pipe mouthpieces.
Use & Care
Use: Last On, First Off: Apply all lotions, perfumes, and hair/body sprays before putting on jewelry to prevent chemical buildup that can dull and damage the surface. Activity Check: Remove jewelry before swimming (chlorine), showering (soap residue and chemical exposures), or high impact activities like exercise or gardening to avoid damage. Chemical Exposure: Avoid household cleaners, alcohol-based sanitizers, and vinegar, which can alter appearances permanently.
Cleaning: Method: Use lukewarm water and mild (detergent free) soap. Action: Gently rub with a soft cloth. Drying: Crucial. Immediately pat dry with a soft lint-free cloth. Do not air-dry, as residual moisture can damage porous stones over time. Avoid: Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, which can cause fractures and strip some colors.
Storage: Individual Separation: Store each piece in its own soft pouch or a lined compartment to prevent stones and metals of varying hardness scratching each other. Environment: Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Moisture Control: Consider adding silica packets to storage containers to absorb excess humidity that can tarnish metals and affect stones over time.
Longevity: Amber is made to participate, and should be wiped with a damp cloth while stored to prevent brittleness. Keep away from prolonged intense sunlight.