The alluring amber has always attracted jewelry lovers as well as jewelry makers for its potential for creating artistic jewelry. In vintage collections as well as in modern designs you will come across creative use of this bright luminescent stone. Starting from necklace and earrings or finger rings to pendants and bracelets, amber can add a touch of class to all types of jewelry.
Before you invest in an exquisite piece of amber jewelry, equip yourself with some basic information about amber.
Origin
The most interesting part of amber is that it fascinates people from all walks of society both for its origin and its beauty. It interests the geologists and jewelry lovers alike. This is because amber, unlike gemstones, comes from the resins of ancient trees grown in amber forests millions of years ago.
Amber Regions
The largest deposits of amber can be found in the Baltic region. Though amber is also found in the other parts of the world, Baltic amber is the most sought after variety so far jewelry making is concerned.
Color and Clarity
When you are going to make jewelry with any substance, the first two things you have to check are the color and clarity.
So far as the color of amber is concerned, this beautiful gemstone closely resembles the golden yellow color of honey. However, the color may range to rich orange or burnt red to reddish brown. However, though rare, it is not unusual to find amber in blue, green or shades of black.
Translucency is a much desired quality in amber. Depending on the degree of transparency, amber may be clear or cloudy. Transparent amber are found with golden yellow or reddish yellow hues. When the amber is semi-transparent or opaque, it appears cloudy. Depending on their color and clarity, the amber stones are categorized as fatty, bone (or osseous) or foamy (or frothy).
So how will you choose a piece of amber to get your dream piece of jewelry? Remember, while translucency is a desired quality in any gemstone, the inclusions make the stones even more interesting and hence more expensive. Amber with high clarity is expensive; but even more prized is the amber with slight inclusions having unique charm of its own. Depending on the types of inclusions the amber is known by such names as fatty, bone, bastard amber and so on.
A fragile stone
The last but most important information about amber jewelry: due to its organic origin, it is not long lasting. However, with proper care and maintenance you can significantly add to its life span by following these tips:
Store your amber jewelry in a cotton lined jewel box separately.
Do not expose it to direct sunlight and heat.
Avoid using harsh chemicals; clean it in lukewarm water with soft clothes.
You can apply olive oil from time to time to retain the shine and polish.
Amber no doubt renders value to your jewelry wardrobe. Their unique color makes them fit for both formal as well as casual look. Its typical physical and chemical properties make it a darling with modern designers who can experiment with the cut and design of this stone to their heart’s content. With amber jewelry you can also experiment a lot.
Consider making your own fashion statement with an exquisite piece of amber jewelry; online shops are the great place to catch the latest trends in amber jewelry.
Tania Penwell provides information on amber jewelry and other jewelry topics for Jewelry Savvy - your guide to jewelry.
