Amber is the
ancient resin of trees. The resin has gone
through a number of changes over millions of
years. The result of this metamorphosis is an
exceptional gem with extraordinary properties.
The worlds two current major deposits of amber,
Dominican Republic and Baltic (which at the
time the trees grew was sub-tropical) had two
separate tree types which produced the original
resin. The Baltic source tree has been named
Pinites succinifer.The Dominican Republic resin
tree was Hymenaea protera for which had its
origins in Africa.
It is interesting to note that few potential
amber forming forests now exist.
Of all the amber deposits in the world,
probably the most famous and certainly the
largest is that of the Baltic region. It
represents some 80% of the worlds known amber
resource and deposits range between 35 to 40
million years old. Going back into prehistory
this amber has been used and fashioned by
humankind in countless ways and in measureless
quantities. The earliest piece of worked amber
found was dated at 7,000 years BC.
Mystic Lore: Intuitive sources say that Amber
transmutes negative energies into positive,
calms one's nerves, enlivens one's disposition,
purifies one's energies, and instills an inner
sense of warmth. It is also said to promote
good health.
If you would like to learn more about Amber,
visit Garry Platt's
website