Real Amber vs. Fake Amber
Real Amber vs. Fake Amber: How to Tell the Difference
Amber, a timeless gemstone, has captivated people for centuries with its warm, golden hues and unique inclusions. As the popularity of amber continues to grow, so does the market for fake amber. With the rise in imitations, it's crucial to know how to differentiate real amber from fake. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, understanding these key distinctions can help you make an informed purchase.
What is Real Amber?
Real amber is fossilized tree resin that has taken millions of years to form. It often contains ancient inclusions, such as insects or plant material, that were trapped in the resin before it hardened. These inclusions, along with amber's unique composition, make it a highly sought-after gemstone.
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Common Types of Fake Amber
The market is flooded with various types of fake amber, each designed to mimic the appearance of the real thing. Here are some of the most common imitations:
- Plastic Amber: Often the most convincing, plastic amber mimics the color and transparency of real amber but lacks its natural warmth and inclusions.
- Glass Amber: Glass imitations are heavier and colder to the touch compared to real amber. They also lack the organic feel of genuine amber.
- Copal Resin: A younger form of tree resin, copal is often sold as amber but is not as old or as valuable. It’s much softer and less stable than true amber.
1. The Heat Test
One of the most effective ways to test amber is through heat. Real amber, when gently heated, emits a pleasant, pine-like scent due to the presence of natural resins. In contrast, fake amber made from plastic or synthetic resins will release a sharp, unpleasant chemical odor.
How to do it: Heat a needle until it’s red-hot and gently press it against an inconspicuous part of the amber. If it’s real, you’ll smell the characteristic pine scent. If it’s fake, the smell will be that of burning plastic.
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2. The Saltwater Test
Amber is less dense than saltwater, which means it will float when placed in a saltwater solution. Most fake ambers, such as those made from glass or plastic, will sink.
How to do it: Dissolve about seven teaspoons of salt in a cup of water. Place the amber in the solution. If it floats, it’s likely real amber; if it sinks, it’s probably fake.
3. Visual Inspection
Real amber often has natural imperfections, such as tiny bubbles or inclusions, which give it character. These natural features are difficult to replicate in fake amber.
- Inclusions: Genuine amber may contain small insects, plant material, or other organic matter trapped millions of years ago. These inclusions are often irregular and scattered randomly.
- Surface Texture: Real amber may have a slightly rough or matte finish, whereas fake amber made from plastic or glass is often smoother and more uniform.
4. The Scratch Test
Amber is relatively soft, with a hardness of 2 to 2.5 on the Mohs scale. It can be scratched by a sharp object like a needle. Be careful when performing this test to avoid damaging the amber.
How to do it: Lightly scratch the surface of the amber with a needle or a knife. Real amber will show a powdery residue, while glass or plastic may not scratch easily or will show a white mark.
5. The UV Light Test
Under UV light, real amber typically emits a blue or green fluorescence due to its natural resin content. Fake amber, especially those made from plastic or glass, may not fluoresce or may glow a different color.
How to do it: Shine a UV light or blacklight on the amber in a dark room. Real amber will glow, usually with a blue or green hue, while fake amber might not react or will fluoresce differently.
Conclusion
Distinguishing real amber from fake can be challenging, but by using these simple tests, you can make an informed decision. Whether you're purchasing amber jewelry or adding to your collection, knowing how to identify genuine amber is crucial. Remember, real amber carries the beauty and mystery of ancient times, making it a truly valuable and special gemstone.
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