Amber Gems & Baltic Amber Benefits

The Formation of Amber & Amber Precious Stones

While it is generally known that Amber is formed from the resin of trees, the specifics are not as well remembered. The trees are specifically ancient coniferous trees ranging back into to the Eocene, Oligocene and Miocene periods primarily - this is as far back as 56 million years in the past! 

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When these trees produced the resin in response to external damage from chewing insects to protect against further injury and pathogens - the resin contains antiseptic qualities that simultaneously make it difficult for insects to regain access. Excess resin often overflowed down the trees, capturing detritus and small insects - even smaller mammals such as the chameleon and gecko ancestors. The random nature of this is what causes the unique appearance of each amber gem! 

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Over time, these trees fall and the various branches and logs that are covered in this resin are carried to coastal areas where they are deposited and build up over time - this is where the special geological process of Amberisation occurs. This is typically where amber is found a majority of the time!

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• Resin Secretion: As mentioned, trees secrete resin to protect against outside trauma and disease. The amber is soft, sticky and is a viscous liquid.

• Deposition and Hardening: The resin hardens through exposure to the air and starts to lose more volatile compounds through oxidation. Further hardening is done through polymerisation where resin molecules start linking together in a more complex, stable structure. The resin is swept along by rivers to coastal areas and is buried under multiple layers of sediment and under pressure and temperature, promote further polymerisation. This stage happens over millions of years.

• Fossilisation: With constant pressure and heat, resin continues becoming even more solidified - this also could involve the preservation of any inclusions or creatures within.

• Final Transformation: By the end of the previous step, the resin has transformed in the the amber gem that we know and love!

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Amber Healing Qualities and its Use in Culture

Now we understand how amber is formed, we dive more into the actual effects of this prehistoric gemstone and the benefits of amber. Amber has been celebrated across ancient civilisations not only for its unique glowing beauty but for its reputed healing properties. From the ancient Greeks and Egyptians to medieval Europeans, all had integrated this precious stone into their individual cultures.

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Baltic Cultures & Baltic Amber Benefits

Key Benefits: Shield against harm, attract good fortune, protect against evil

• One of ^the best regions in the world to find high quality amber, Amber gems have historically been intertwined with folklore and cultural healing in the Baltic region. In ancient Baltic cultures, Baltic amber was revered for its protective properties. 

• People believed it acted as a shield against harm and negative forces. As a result, baltic amber was frequently crafted into amulets and talismans, and it was believed that the benefits of baltic amber included its power to attract good fortune and fend off evil spirits.

• Some of the benefits of baltic amber are its capability to absorb pain and negative energy - but also clear depression, promoting self confidence and creativeness

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The Ancient Greeks and Romans

Key Benefits: Boost overall health, repel negative forces, ease pain 

• Amber or more commonly known in this period as Elektra, was thought to possess magical characteristics. Ancient Greeks and Romans both saw amber as more than just a beautiful material; they believed it had special magical and healing qualities.

•  Greeks thought amber could ease pain and help with digestive and inflammatory issues, linking its golden colour to Apollo, the sun god, and its capacity to boost overall health. 

• Romans used amber in remedies and amulets, relying on it to safeguard against diseases and repel negative forces.

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Traditional Chinese Medicine

Key Benefits: Balancing internal energies, promote well being, reduce stress and anxiety

• In traditional Chinese medicine, amber has long been utilised to address a range of health issues. It was thought to have calming effects that could reduce stress and anxiety. 

• Amber was also employed to support liver and kidney functions, enhance circulation, and assist with respiratory problems. Its warm, soothing energy was believed to help balance the body’s internal energies and promote overall well-being.

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Ancient Egyptian Culture

Key Benefits: Increased vitality, strengthen the spirit, restoring balance

• The ancient Egyptians saw amber as a symbol of life and fertility. They incorporated it into amulets and jewellery, believing it provided protection and increased vitality.
• Amber’s warmth was thought to strengthen one's spiritual connection and foster inner healing.
• Additionally, amber was believed to promote healing from within, helping to restore balance and well-being. This reverence for amber reflects its deep significance in Egyptian culture, where it was cherished not only for its beauty but also for its perceived mystical and life-affirming qualities.

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Medieval European Beliefs

Key Benefits: Protection against misfortune and illness, soothe respiratory issues

• During the medieval period in Europe, amber was used in a range of medicinal practices. It was believed to help with ailments such as arthritis and sore throats. 
• The term "amber" itself comes from the Arabic word "anbar," which referred to the resin’s aromatic properties and its use in traditional medicine.
• Amber's warm, natural energy was thought to help improve circulation and support overall vitality.

Summary

Amber, celebrated for its golden beauty and mystical qualities, has captivated cultures for millennia. Known as the "gold of the Baltic Sea," Amber gems were revered by Greeks and Romans for its healing and protective properties, and used in remedies and jewellery. Formed from ancient tree resin, amber undergoes a fascinating transformation over millions of years into a solid gem, often preserving ancient inclusions. Throughout history, it has been valued for its purported ability to enhance health, protect against negative forces, and promote spiritual well-being, with its significance spanning from Baltic amulets to Egyptian symbols of vitality. Into the modern era, amber continues to enchant with its blend of historical and modern appeal.