Discover The Beauty And History Of Raw Baltic Amber Jewelry

What is Baltic Amber?

Baltic amber, known scientifically as succinite, is a type of fossilized tree resin that dates back over 40 million years. Found primarily in the Baltic Sea region, particularly in Lithuania, Poland, and Russia, this raw amber is cherished for its natural beauty and historical significance.

The Origins of Baltic Amber

The formation of Baltic amber begins with the sap of ancient coniferous trees that lived during the late Eocene epoch. Over millions of years, this sap underwent a complex process of polymerization, hardening into the amber we know today. Baltic amber is revered for its high quality and unique characteristics, making it a popular choice for jewelers and collectors alike.

Characteristics of Raw Baltic Amber

Raw Baltic amber is appreciated for its natural, unpolished form. This type of amber retains its earthy texture and often exhibits inclusions such as trapped insects, plant material, and air bubbles, making each piece unique. The color of raw Baltic amber can range from yellow and orange to deeper shades of brown and even blues and greens in rarer forms.

Benefits of Raw Baltic Amber

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, raw Baltic amber is believed to possess healing properties, especially when worn as jewelry. Many parents use amber teething necklaces for infants, as it is thought to help reduce discomfort associated with teething. The presence of succinic acid in Baltic amber is said to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

How to Identify Genuine Raw Baltic Amber

With the popularity of Baltic amber, it’s essential to know how to differentiate genuine amber from imitations such as plastic or copal. Here are a few tips:

• Weight: Genuine amber is lightweight compared to glass or other substitutes.
• Cold Test: Real amber feels warm to the touch after being held for a while, whereas glass will feel cold.
• Burn Test: Amber has a natural resinous smell when burned, while plastic emits a chemical odor.

Using Raw Baltic Amber in Jewelry

Raw Baltic amber is commonly used to create beautiful, natural jewelry pieces. Its organic texture is often left unpolished to showcase its intrinsic beauty. Apart from teething necklaces, you can find raw amber in:

• Pendants
• Earrings
• Bracelets

Care Tips for Raw Baltic Amber

Protecting your raw Baltic amber jewelry is crucial to maintaining its beauty. Here are some care tips:

• Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or daily wear that may cause scratches.
• Store it in a soft pouch to prevent scratches when not in use.
• Clean with a soft, damp cloth to preserve its natural sheen.

Conclusion

Raw Baltic amber is more than just a beautiful natural material; it carries a rich history and potential health benefits. Whether you are a collector, jewelry maker, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, raw Baltic amber is a timeless and valuable choice. Always remember to seek genuine pieces from reputable sources to ensure you are getting the real thing.