Amber, fossilized tree resin, captivates with its warm glow and ancient history. However, the popularity of amber has led to a surge in counterfeits. Knowing how to distinguish real amber from imitations is crucial for buyers, collectors, and anyone appreciating this beautiful gemstone. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently identify genuine amber.
What are the Common Ways to Test if Amber is Real?
Several methods exist to authenticate amber, each with varying degrees of accuracy and accessibility. Let's explore the most reliable techniques.
1. The Saltwater Test
This is a widely known and relatively easy test. Here's how it works:
- Fill a glass: Fill a glass about halfway with saltwater. The ratio is roughly one part salt to two parts water. Stir until the salt dissolves completely.
- Submerge the amber: Gently drop your amber piece into the saltwater solution.
- Observe the result: Real amber will float, while most imitations (like plastic or glass) will sink.
Why this works: Amber's density is lower than that of saltwater, making it buoyant. This test isn't foolproof – some very dense amber might sink, and some cleverly crafted imitations might float, making it best used in conjunction with other tests.
2. The Heat Test (Use with Caution!)
This test requires careful execution to avoid damaging the amber or causing injury.
- Heat a needle: Carefully heat a needle with a lighter or a match until it's hot (but not glowing red).
- Apply to the amber: Gently touch the hot needle to an inconspicuous area of the amber (such as the back).
- Smell the fumes (and watch the reaction): Real amber will give off a slightly pungent, piney odor (like burning wood). It will also slightly soften, leaving a small, sticky mark (the mark won't be immediately noticeable). Plastic imitations will melt or burn with a strong, acrid smell.
Important Note: This test is destructive and can damage the amber. Only use it as a last resort on pieces of little value or inconspicuous parts of the piece.
3. The UV Light Test
Many (but not all) types of amber fluoresce under UV light. This means they will glow a certain color.
- Use a UV light: Shine a UV (ultraviolet) light, like a blacklight, on the amber.
- Observe the fluorescence: Real amber might glow a bluish-white, sometimes with hints of other colours. However, the absence of fluorescence doesn't automatically mean it's fake; some types of amber simply don't fluoresce under UV light. Similarly, some plastics also fluoresce. Use this test in conjunction with other methods.
4. Examine the Inclusions
Real amber often contains trapped insects, plant matter, or air bubbles. These inclusions are usually irregularly shaped and naturally occurring. Artificial amber generally lacks these natural-looking inclusions or may contain perfectly formed, unnatural-looking inclusions.
5. Check for the "Static Electricity" Test
Rub the amber piece against a woolen cloth. Genuine amber will attract small pieces of paper or hair due to the static electricity that amber readily generates. This is a simple test but not conclusive on its own, as some plastics also show this property.
What Other Materials Might be Mistaken for Amber?
Many materials can be mistaken for amber, including:
- Plastic: A common imitation, often mimicking the color and translucence of amber.
- Copal: A younger form of resin, not yet fully fossilized. It is softer than amber and often reacts differently to the heat test.
- Glass: Can be carefully crafted to resemble amber, but lacks the inclusions and often feels heavier.
How Can I Be Absolutely Sure My Amber is Real?
For definitive authentication, especially with valuable pieces, it's best to consult a qualified gemologist or amber expert. They can perform more thorough tests and provide a professional assessment. They may use more sophisticated techniques, such as refractive index measurement or spectroscopy.
By utilizing a combination of these tests, you'll significantly increase your ability to discern real amber from imitations. Remember that no single test provides absolute certainty, and a holistic approach is recommended.
