How Can You Tell Real Amber

How Can You Tell Real Amber?

Amber, fossilized tree resin, has captivated humans for millennia with its warm glow and unique inclusions. However, the market is flooded with imitations, making it crucial to know how to distinguish genuine amber from its counterfeits. This guide provides foolproof methods to authenticate amber, ensuring you invest wisely in this beautiful gemstone.

The Saltwater Test: A Simple Yet Effective Method

One of the easiest ways to test for real amber is the saltwater test. Amber's density is lower than that of saltwater, meaning it will float. Here's how to perform this test:

• Mix: Prepare a saturated saltwater solution by dissolving as much salt as possible into a glass of water. You should see undissolved salt at the bottom.
• Submerge: Gently place the amber piece into the saltwater.
• Observe: Real amber will float, while most imitations, such as plastic or glass, will sink.

Important Note: This test isn't foolproof. Some very dense amber might still sink, especially if it contains a high concentration of organic matter. However, it's a great initial screening method.

The Heat Test: A Cautionary Approach

The heat test involves cautiously applying heat to the amber. Real amber will warm slowly, releasing a pleasant piney scent. However, this method is risky and can permanently damage the amber piece if not done correctly. Only attempt this test if you are confident in your technique and on a small, inconspicuous area. Excessive heat can crack or melt the amber. Furthermore, many imitations can also produce a similar scent, thus reducing this test's accuracy.

Alternative methods to assess authenticity

Here are some other ways to tell real amber:

• Check for inclusions: Real amber often contains insects, plant material, or air bubbles trapped within. These inclusions are unique and rarely replicated in fake amber.
• Examine the surface: Genuine amber typically has a slightly uneven surface. Look for natural pitting, striations or irregular textures, that are generally absent in manufactured pieces.
• Observe the fluorescence: Real amber often exhibits a fluorescent blue or greenish-white glow under UV light, though this is not always the case, and some imitations can also fluoresce. This should be considered as supplemental evidence rather than a definitive test.
• Feel the weight: Genuine amber, despite its appearance, feels surprisingly warm to the touch because it is not perfectly smooth and maintains a slight warmth to its natural structure. Fake amber often feels colder and smoother to the touch.
• Assess the price: Real, high-quality amber is an investment and generally costs a significant amount, which can be a key indicator of its authenticity.

Professional Appraisal: The Surest Path to Authenticity

For valuable pieces, seek a professional appraisal from a reputable gemologist or amber expert. They have the expertise and tools, such as refractive index testing and specific gravity measurements, to definitively authenticate amber. This is the most reliable method, particularly when dealing with expensive or important pieces.

By combining these methods, you can significantly increase your chances of identifying genuine amber. Remember that a combination of tests provides a more reliable result than relying on a single method. Always prioritize careful observation and, when in doubt, seek professional expertise.