How Do You Know if Amber is Real? A Comprehensive Guide to Authenticating Amber
Amber, fossilized tree resin, captivates with its warm glow and ancient history. However, the market is flooded with imitations, making it crucial to know how to distinguish genuine amber from its counterfeits. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to confidently identify real amber.
What are the common ways to test for real amber?
Several methods can help determine the authenticity of amber. These range from simple at-home tests to more sophisticated laboratory analyses. Let's explore some of the most effective techniques.
1. The Saltwater Test:
This is a classic, readily available method. Here's how to perform it:
- Fill a glass: Fill a glass about ¾ full with saltwater (a ratio of roughly 1 cup of salt to 4 cups of water). Stir until the salt dissolves completely.
- Submerge the amber: Gently place the piece of amber in the saltwater.
- Observe: Real amber will float because its density is lower than that of saltwater. Imitations, such as plastic or glass, will usually sink.
Important Note: While this is a useful preliminary test, it's not foolproof. Some treated amber or amber with high density might sink, leading to false negatives. Use this test in conjunction with other methods for a more accurate result.
2. The Heat Test (Use Caution!):
This test should be performed with extreme care, as overheating can damage the amber. Only attempt this test if you are experienced in handling delicate materials.
- Heat a needle: Carefully heat a needle over a flame (a lighter works well).
- Touch the amber (briefly!): Lightly touch the heated needle to the amber's surface. Real amber will emit a distinct piney or slightly sweet scent. Plastic will melt or burn, emitting a harsh chemical odor.
Caution: This test carries a risk of damaging the amber, especially if you apply too much heat. It’s crucial to conduct it very gently and briefly.
3. The UV Light Test:
Many types of amber fluoresce under ultraviolet (UV) light. This means they will glow a specific color when exposed to UV.
- Use a UV lamp: Use a long-wave UV lamp (365nm). These are commonly available online or in specialized stores.
- Observe the fluorescence: Real amber typically exhibits a range of fluorescence, from a subtle blueish-white glow to a more intense yellowish-green. However, not all amber fluoresces, so a lack of fluorescence doesn't necessarily mean it's fake. Conversely, many imitations can fluoresce, so this test should be used in combination with others.
4. The Scratch Test (Use Caution!):
This test should be conducted with great care on an inconspicuous area.
- Use a steel needle: Gently try to scratch the surface of the amber using a steel needle.
- Observe the result: Real amber is relatively hard and won't be easily scratched by a steel needle. Many imitations, especially plastic, will show visible scratches.
Caution: This test can cause permanent damage, so it is best avoided unless absolutely necessary and only performed on a hidden part of the piece.
5. Professional Appraisal:
For valuable pieces, the best way to verify authenticity is through professional appraisal. Gemological laboratories use advanced techniques, such as refractive index testing and density measurements, to accurately determine if a piece is genuine amber.
What are the common materials used to imitate amber?
Several materials are used to mimic amber, including:
- Plastic: Often the most common imitation, plastic can be molded to resemble amber's shape and color.
- Glass: Glass imitations can be quite convincing, particularly in clear or light-colored pieces.
- Copal: Copal is a younger resin that can look like amber but lacks its hardness and age. It's often sold as "amber" but is technically not fossilized resin.
- Pressed Amber: While made from real amber, this is composed of small pieces pressed and glued together.
By employing a combination of these methods and exercising caution, you can significantly increase your chances of correctly identifying real amber. Remember, a professional appraisal is always recommended for pieces of high value or uncertain authenticity.
