How to Tell if Amber is Real: A Comprehensive Guide
Authentic amber, fossilized tree resin, is a prized gemstone with a rich history. However, the market is flooded with imitations, making it crucial to know how to distinguish real amber from its counterfeits. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently identify genuine amber.
What are the most common ways to test if amber is real?
Several methods can help determine the authenticity of amber. These range from simple at-home tests to more sophisticated laboratory analyses. Let's explore some of the most reliable techniques:
1. The Saltwater Test: This is a popular and relatively simple method. Dissolve a generous amount of salt in a glass of water until no more salt dissolves (saturated solution). Real amber will float, while most imitations, such as plastic or glass, will sink. This is because the density of amber is lower than that of saltwater. However, be aware that some treated amber or amber with high densities might still sink.
2. The Heat Test: Carefully heat a needle and touch it to the amber. Real amber will give off a distinctive pine-like scent, while plastic will release a harsh, chemical odor. Caution: This test should be performed with extreme caution to avoid damage and burns. Only apply minimal heat.
3. The UV Light Test: Many types of amber fluoresce under ultraviolet (UV) light. While not foolproof, real amber often exhibits a bluish or greenish glow. The intensity and color of fluorescence can vary depending on the type of amber and the UV light source. However, some synthetic materials also fluoresce, so this is not a definitive test on its own.
4. The Friction Test: Rubbing a piece of amber vigorously against a cloth can create static electricity, attracting small bits of paper or dust. This is a characteristic of amber's inherent properties. While useful, it's not solely indicative of authenticity, as some other materials might also exhibit this trait.
5. Examination with a Magnifying Glass: Examine the amber closely with a magnifying glass. Genuine amber often displays natural inclusions such as insects, plant matter, or air bubbles trapped within the resin. These inclusions are rarely, if ever, perfectly uniform. Fake amber is usually too uniform and lacks these organic details.
6. Professional Appraisal: For valuable pieces or when there is significant doubt, the best option is to seek the opinion of a qualified gemologist or amber expert. They have the tools and expertise to perform precise tests and definitively authenticate the piece.
What materials are often mistaken for amber?
Many materials are used to create amber imitations, including:
- Plastic: This is the most common imitation, often convincingly mimicking the appearance of amber.
- Glass: Glass beads are sometimes dyed to resemble amber.
- Copal: Copal is a hardened resin that is younger than amber (not fossilized). While natural, it's less valuable and sometimes sold as amber.
- Pressurized Amber: This is made by compressing amber dust and fragments into a solid mass. It's still natural amber but usually of lower quality and value.
How can I avoid buying fake amber?
- Buy from reputable sources: Purchase from established jewelers or amber specialists with a good reputation and verifiable provenance.
- Ask for certifications: Reputable sellers will often provide certificates of authenticity.
- Don't fall for suspiciously low prices: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Thoroughly examine the piece: Use the methods described above to examine the amber yourself before purchasing.
By understanding the various methods for testing amber and by practicing due diligence, you can significantly increase your chances of acquiring authentic amber and avoid costly mistakes. Remember, a combination of tests provides the strongest indication of authenticity.
