Amber Jewelry 101 - What You Need To Know



The right piece of jewelry is what makes any outfit stand out. Yet, finding that perfect piece may not always be easy. With so many synthetics and mass produced clones, it can be difficulty to find a stone that truly stands apart from the crowd. That is the beauty of amber jewelry - no two are alike.

When you wear amber, you are wearing history. This precious stone took shape from the resin of ancient trees - trees that were around when dinosaurs walked the earth. Over thousands of years the sap hardened, creating these unique pieces of historic rock. That is something that cannot be manufactured in a lab.

The stone is found in certain parts of the world. Each location develops a distinct type of rock that can vary in color, translucence, and texture. Some locations produce stones that are more sought after then others. Baltic amber is one such example. It is sought after by artisans, and usually comes with a higher price tag.

There are many colors to choose from. Most pieces will vary from a delicate honey yellow to deep burnt orange, although shades of green, blue, and black are occasionally available. The darker tones are not as common and may be harder to find. Clarity is an important factor and will determine the rocks value. Higher clarity is very desirable. A cloudy texture, while appealing in its own right, will decrease the value of the stone. Some specimens will carry a small surprise - a perfectly preserved prehistoric insect.

Over the years, this stone has created a following. It is relatively easy to understand why. Each piece is original and never goes out of style. No two are every exactly alike.

While fashion trends are as abrupt as the wind, this type of jewelry matches and enhances outfits regardless of current style. The sheer variety of colors, textures, and choices available cover everything from vintage to bohemian. It is a stone that compliments everyone, and looks equally good with casual or formal wear.

One thing to keep in mind is amber has low tolerance for harsh chemicals. Your standard polish for other jewelry may be too rough for this stone. Using inappropriate materials can lead to a scratched or cloudy surface, and can ruin the jewelry. The same goes for long exposure to direct sun and heat.

To maintain a clear stone, buy a soft cloth made from gentle fabric such as microfiber. The cloth used to clean eye glasses is also ideal for polishing this type of jewelry. A gentle circular motion is ideal. If there is tarnish, tepid water and olive oil can be used to shine the piece.

With proper care this stone will last through the decades. Occasionally, you may find antique pieces that date back several hundred years. While it may be tempting to buy a synthetic stone, it lacks the unique qualities of real amber.

Regardless of current fashion trends, this type of jewelry is a timeless classic that will never go out of style. Each piece is truly unique and irreplaceable. There is a distinct stone available for everyone whether their tastes run to the bohemian, conservative, or modern.

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