Amber is a form of tree resin exuded as a protective mechanism against disease and insect infestation that has hardened
and been preserved in the earth's crust over a period of millions of years. The gemstone amber is actually an organic substance although it is regarded as a
gem. Its structure has changed very little over time, unlike other fossilized material, in which organic matter is replaced with minerals. It is one of the
few gemstones of organic origin and is a soft gemstone measuring 2-2.5 on Mohs Scale.
Amber is preserved only under special conditions because amber oxidizes and degrades when exposed to oxygen. Because of
this fact, it is almost always found in dense, wet sediments, such as clay and sand that formed at the bottom of an ancient lagoon or a river delta. While
hundreds of amber deposits occur around the world, most of them contain only trace amounts of the substance. There are only about twenty deposits in the
world containing amounts of amber large enough to be mined.
Amber was not only one of the first substances used by mankind for jewelry and decoration but was also used as powerful
amulets for protection and well being. Amber jewelry is still one of the most popular gemstones today. Although the most common colors are orange and
brown, it also comes in tones of white and black as well. Amber lends itself well to hand crafted jewelry as it can be cut into many different
shapes.
Amber is believed to have metaphysical properties that provide health, good luck and spiritual healing.
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