Copal is a natural tree resin known for its aromatic qualities and historical roots. The term is derived from the Nahuatl word “copalli,” which means “incense.” This substance is an intermediate stage between fresh plant resin and the fossilized resin known as amber. For centuries, cultures have harvested this material for use in ceremonies, art, and traditional wellness practices.
The Origins and Types of Copal
Copal is a subfossilized resin, meaning it has not fully completed the fossilization process, placing its age between a few hundred and a few thousand years old. It is harvested from tropical trees, most notably the Protium and Bursera genera in Mesoamerica. Sources also include East Africa, from the Hymenaea verrucosa tree, and Indonesia, from the Shorea javanica tree. The resin is collected after it seeps from cuts in the tree’s bark and hardens.
This resin is categorized into three main types: white, gold, and black. White copal (“copal blanco”) is known for a light, citrusy fragrance when burned. Gold copal (“copal oro”) has a warmer, resinous aroma and a golden hue. Black copal (“copal negro”) is darker and has a deeper, earthy scent. These variations depend on the specific tree species, its age, and the environment in which it was harvested.
Cultural and Practical Uses
The use of copal is embedded in the spiritual traditions of Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Maya and Aztec cultures. It was, and still is, burned as incense during ceremonies for purification, to create sacred spaces, and as an offering to deities. The smoke was believed to be a conduit between the material world and the spirit realm, carrying prayers and messages. In some indigenous communities, copal is used in sweat lodge ceremonies to address spiritual ailments like grief and fright.
Beyond its ceremonial importance, copal has had practical applications throughout history. In the 18th century, it was a component in wood varnishes to protect furniture and carriages. The resin’s adhesive properties were also used by ancient artisans; for example, as a glue to set jade inlays into the teeth of Aztec courtiers. Today, artisans use copal with insect or plant inclusions to craft jewelry and other decorative items.
Distinguishing Copal from Amber
Copal is often confused with amber, as both are tree resins. The primary distinguishing factor is age; copal is thousands of years old, whereas amber has undergone full fossilization over millions of years. This age gap results in different physical properties. Amber is harder and more chemically stable than copal, registering between 2 and 3 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
This chemical difference allows for simple identification tests. A reliable method is the solvent test: applying a drop of acetone or alcohol to copal’s surface will make it tacky as it dissolves. True amber, having completed its polymerization, remains hard and unaffected by the same solvents. Another indicator is observed under UV light; amber fluoresces a pale blue or green, while copal shows little to no fluorescence.