Amber: The Fossilized Treasure Amber is a translucent gemstone that is appreciated for its beauty and historical significance. This fossilized resin is millions of years old, and it has captured the imagination of humankind since ancient times. Here are some interesting facts about amber and why it is such a fascinating gemstone. History of Amber Amber has been prized as a valuable jewel for thousands of years. Ancient Greeks called it "electrum," meaning "made by the sun." They believed that amber was formed when the sun's rays hit the sea and hardened the sap from trees. The Egyptians, on the other hand, used amber for jewelry, amulets, and perfume bottles. In Rome, amber was so valuable that the price of an amber figurine could reach that of a healthy slave. Amber Formation Amber is formed from the resin of trees that lived millions of years ago. The resin oozed out of the tree, and over time, it fossilized into amber. The fossilization process preserved the sap, trapping air bubbles, and even small insects in some cases. In fact, some amber specimens contain preserved insects, which provide scientists with a glimpse of life on earth millions of years ago. Properties of Amber Amber varies in color, ranging from yellow to brown, and sometimes red or green. It is a soft, yet durable gemstone with a hardness of 2-2.5 on the Mohs scale. Amber has a unique property called electrostatic charge, which is why it was called "electrum" in ancient times. When rubbed with a cloth, amber develops a static charge, which was used in early science experiments to generate electricity. Uses of Amber Amber is used for various purposes, from jewelry to medicine. Amber jewelry is popular, and it is believed to have healing properties, such as promoting good health and relieving anxiety. Amber is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including arthritis, bronchitis, and sore throats. Some people even use amber oil as a natural insect repellent. In conclusion, amber is a gemstone that has captivated us for centuries, and it continues to fascinate us to this day. Its unique properties, historical significance, and healing properties make it a fossilized treasure that we should appreciate and cherish.