Amber- Natures ‘Gemstone’
Amber is fossilized tree resin, which was secreted from extinct conifer trees and ancient pine trees millions of years ago as the trees defense against damage. When the trees fell or died some were carried down rivers into the sea where they eventually became covered in sediment and the hardened resin was transformed into amber.
Bark, grit, vegetation and insects caught in the resin became natural inclusions in the amber, in most cases perfectly preserved. Amber with insects trapped inside are much sought after.
Amber derives its name from Middle English ‘ambre’, from Medieval Latin ‘ambra’, and from the Arabic ‘anbar ambergris’.
Evidence of amber being used as an adornment date back as early as 12′000 B.C, amber was highly prized by the Romans, who would be willing to pay as much for a fine piece of amber jewellery as they would for a fit and healthy slave.
Amber has long been associated with mental stimulation, and is said to balance aggressive traits.
Amber has been associated with healing qualities and it is believed that amber is excellent for eyes, and for glandular swellings of the throat and lungs. Amber balances endocrine and digestive network.
When warmed by wearing next to the skin amber has been found to release succinic acid which is a natural analgesic and has antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Individual amber beads are available from Trollbeads in beautiful shades such as Alabaster, Honey Dew, Maple syrup and Caramel Sunset. A twelve bead kit features a whole spectrum of amber hues, all of which are available at equinox.
About the Author
A range of amber Trollbeads is available at Equinox Contemporary Jewellery.
