Global Gemology - Rare Gems & Jewels
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amber


Vintage Russian-made 14K rose gold amber ring, hallmarked
14K rose gold natural amber ring
Species:  Amber
​​Mohs Hardness:  2 to 2.5 out of 10
Color:  Transparent to opaque.  Light yellow to dark brown, orange, red, green, black or white.
RI:  1.540 (+0.005 / -0.001)
Birefringence:  None
SR/DR/AGG:  SR, commonly with strong ADR
Fluorescence:  Inert to strong yellowish green to orangy yellow, white, bluish white, or blue under LW.  Weaker under SW.
SG:  1.08 (+ 0.02 / -0.08)
Routine Treatments:  Heating
Additional Enhancements:  Beeswax aging

amber facts

This organic green amber has a trapped insect inclusion!
Insect trapped in organic green amber [Photo by Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CMA (NAJA)]

Amber is a natural, organic gem composed of fossilized tree resin.

The oldest amber is dated to the Carboniferous Period (approximately 320 million years ago).

Unlike diamonds, inclusions in amber can actually increase its value.  Amber with unique inclusions can be very valuable, especially pieces with spiders, lizards or other creatures trapped inside.

Amber is often heated to purposely cause internal fractures known as sun spangles​.

Amber generally occurs in 6 different colors:  orange, yellow, green, red, black and, rarely, blue.

​

Amber Gallery

All photos courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CMA (NAJA)
  • HOME
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  • SHOP
  • GEMOLOGY
    • GEM ENCYCLOPEDIA
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    • ESTATE TAX
    • ESTATE DISTRIBUTION
    • CHARITABLE DONATION
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  • SELL YOUR JEWELRY
  • JEWELRY EDUCATION
    • DIAMOND FACTS
    • JEWELER DIRECTORY
    • JEWELRY PERIODS
    • POCKET WATCHES
    • NATIVE AMERICAN JEWELRY
  • GLOSSARY