How to Tell Real Amber from Fake: A Comprehensive Guide
Amber, fossilized tree resin, has captivated humans for millennia with its warm glow and unique beauty. However, its desirability has led to a surge in imitations. Knowing how to distinguish authentic amber from its counterfeits is crucial, whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious buyer. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently identify real amber.
What are the most common ways to tell if amber is real?
Several methods exist to determine the authenticity of amber, each with varying degrees of effectiveness. These range from simple at-home tests to more sophisticated laboratory analyses. Let's explore the most reliable techniques.
1. The Saltwater Test:
This is a popular home test. Real amber has a lower density than saltwater, so it will float. Fake amber, often made from plastic or glass, will usually sink.
- How to perform the test: Mix a solution of equal parts salt and water. Stir until the salt dissolves. Gently place the suspected amber piece in the solution. If it floats, it's likely amber; if it sinks, it's likely a fake. Important Note: This test isn't foolproof. Some plastics can also float, so it's best used in conjunction with other methods.
2. The Heat Test (with Caution):
This test involves heating a small, inconspicuous part of the amber. Real amber will slowly soften and release a pine-like scent. Fake amber may melt rapidly, produce a different odor, or not change at all.
- How to perform the test (Proceed with extreme caution): Use a needle or pin to heat a tiny, hidden corner of the amber with a lighter flame. Never hold the amber directly in the flame. Watch for the signs described above. Warning: This test can damage the amber piece, making it less valuable. It's recommended only for pieces of low value or those where you're certain it's a fake.
3. The UV Light Test:
Many (but not all) types of amber fluoresce under ultraviolet (UV) light. Authentic amber typically exhibits a bluish or greenish glow. However, some fakes can also fluoresce, so this is not a definitive test on its own.
- How to perform the test: Shine a UV light (long wave UV is recommended) on the suspected amber. Observe the reaction. Lack of fluorescence doesn't necessarily mean it's fake, but a strong and unusual color might indicate a fake.
4. The Friction Test:
Rub the amber against a soft cloth. Real amber will create static electricity, attracting small pieces of paper or dust.
5. Examining the Inclusions:
Authentic amber often contains fossilized insects, plants, or other organic materials trapped within. These inclusions are typically three-dimensional and show subtle variations in color and texture. However, fakes can sometimes include imitation insects, so consider this as one factor in a broader analysis.
6. Professional Appraisal:
For valuable pieces or if you have doubts about a piece's authenticity, a professional gemologist or amber specialist can perform a thorough examination using advanced techniques, including refractive index testing, specific gravity measurements, and spectroscopy.
Is it possible to determine amber authenticity at home completely reliably?
While home tests can offer preliminary indications, they are not foolproof. A combination of tests increases the accuracy, but a professional appraisal remains the most reliable method for confirming the authenticity of valuable pieces.
What materials are often used to fake amber?
Common materials used to counterfeit amber include various plastics (like copal), glass, and even hardened resins. These often mimic the appearance of amber, but lack its characteristic properties and age.
Remember, when buying amber, purchase from reputable sources and always ask for certification or guarantees of authenticity. With the right knowledge and techniques, you can increase your confidence in identifying genuine amber and appreciating its natural beauty.
