Amber, a fossilized tree resin, has captivated humanity for millennia. Its appeal spans from decorative arts to scientific study. Discerning genuine amber from imitations is important for enthusiasts and collectors. Simple identification methods can help confirm its authenticity.
Simple Home Tests for Amber
Several practical tests can be performed at home to determine if a piece is genuine amber. Combining multiple methods provides a more reliable assessment.
The saltwater float test is a common starting point. Dissolve 7 to 10 tablespoons of salt in warm water. Genuine amber, with a specific gravity of 1.05 to 1.10, will float in this dense solution. Most fakes, like glass or many plastics, will sink. However, some plastics can also float, making additional tests beneficial.
The hot needle test is a slightly destructive method. Heat a needle until red hot, then press it into an inconspicuous spot. Authentic amber will resist penetration, leaving a small mark, and emit a pine-like or resinous scent. Plastic imitations will melt easily, producing a burning plastic smell. Copal might melt more readily, giving off a lighter odor.
The scratch test assesses hardness. Amber is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 2 to 3, comparable to a fingernail. A sharp object, like a metal point, should leave a minor mark on genuine amber. Glass, a common imitation, is significantly harder and will resist scratching.
Under UV light, genuine amber often fluoresces. It typically glows with a pale blue or greenish hue. This reaction is a useful indicator, as many imitations do not display the same luminescent properties.
The static electricity test is a simple, non-damaging method. Vigorously rub the specimen with a soft cloth, like wool, for 20 to 60 seconds. Genuine amber will develop an electrostatic charge, attracting small, lightweight objects such as paper or hair. This property is historically significant, as the Greek word for amber, “elektron,” is the origin of “electricity.”
An acetone or alcohol test can differentiate amber from certain fakes. Apply a small drop of acetone (nail polish remover) or alcohol to an inconspicuous area with a cotton swab. Genuine amber will remain unaffected, evaporating cleanly. Copal and many plastic imitations will become sticky, or the liquid might dissolve some material, sometimes taking on a golden color.
Common Materials Mistaken for Amber
Several materials are frequently used to imitate amber, each with distinct properties that help in their identification. Understanding these differences can aid in distinguishing fakes from genuine pieces.
Copal is a younger, less-fossilized tree resin that closely resembles amber in appearance. Unlike true amber, copal is typically softer, having a Mohs hardness of around 1.5, making it more prone to scratching. When subjected to the acetone or alcohol test, copal often becomes sticky or partially dissolves, a reaction not seen with fully fossilized amber. Additionally, while copal may emit a resinous scent when heated, it is often less distinct or different from amber’s characteristic pine aroma.
Plastics and synthetic resins are widely used for amber imitations. These fakes often appear too perfect and uniform in shape and color, lacking the natural imperfections, air bubbles, or varying inclusions found in genuine amber. When subjected to the hot needle test, plastics will melt easily and produce a strong, unpleasant smell of burning plastic. They may also react negatively to solvents like acetone, becoming tacky or dissolving.
Glass is another material sometimes mistaken for amber due to its similar visual qualities. However, glass is noticeably heavier than amber and feels colder to the touch. Unlike amber, glass is much harder and cannot be easily scratched with a typical metal point. In a saltwater solution, glass will sink, confirming its higher density compared to genuine amber.
The Unique Composition of Amber
Amber is fossilized tree resin, not solidified tree sap, that has undergone a natural polymerization process over millions of years. This transformation involves the hardening and chemical alteration of organic resin, often from ancient conifers. Its organic origin gives it distinct physical and chemical properties.
Amber’s composition, primarily carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, explains its unique properties. Its relatively low density allows it to float in saltwater. Its softness, typically 2 to 3 on the Mohs scale, is a direct result of its resinous nature. When heated, volatile organic compounds like terpenes release a characteristic pine-like scent, a direct link to its botanical origins. The presence of numerous microscopic air bubbles, particularly in opaque varieties, also contributes to its low density and varied appearance.