amber

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Photo courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CM (NAJA), Global Gemology & Appraisals

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)

amber facts

Photo courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CM (NAJA), Global Gemology & Appraisals

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.

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Amber Gallery