Amber: a treasure from the past with benefits that still surprise
Okay, let me put it like we're having coffee: amber is one of those things that seems simple, but when you start to learn about its history and properties... it captivates you. It's not a stone like any other: it's actually a fossilized resin that's millions of years old, but it still transmits warmth, protection, and well-being as if it were just formed.
What is amber used for? Its benefits and best-known properties
For centuries, amber has been used to relieve both physical and emotional ailments. And if I'm honest, there's something to it! Look:
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Soothes teething pain in babies
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It helps strengthen the immune system
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It activates blood circulation
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Relieves joint and muscle pain (such as that caused by rheumatism or osteoarthritis)
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It helps to combat tiredness
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It reduces stress and improves mood.
It's one of those stones (or rather, resins) that gently accompany you, without forcing, but that have an effect.
What exactly is amber?
Natural amber is a fossilized resin that comes from ancient coniferous trees. It formed over 50 million years ago and is found mainly near the Baltic Sea, buried in sediments. Its colors are stunning: from translucent white to almost black, including golds, oranges, reds, browns, and even greens.
Sometimes it even contains insects, leaves, or flowers. Literally: a time capsule. And although it's not a mineral, it's considered an organic gem, like pearls or ivory. That's why it's also called "vegetable amber" or "yellow amber."
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Origin of the name “amber”
Interestingly, the word "amber" comes from the Arabic word anbar , but it was originally used to refer to ambergris (a different substance, which comes from the sperm whale).
The Greeks, on the other hand, called vegetable amber elektron , because when rubbed it generates static electricity (yes, that's where the word electricity comes from).
And if I tell you that pieces of amber have been found in prehistoric caves, like Altamira, you get an idea of how important it has always been.
Where does amber come from?
Most of the world's amber (over 90%) comes from the Baltic Sea: Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Latvia, Estonia… Millions of years ago, this area was covered in vast coniferous forests. The resin fell, fossilized, and today we find it on beaches, in shallow mines, or even on the seabed.
Due to its high succinic acid content (which we will discuss later), Baltic amber is one of the most prized in the world. Amber is also found in places like Myanmar, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and even France.
What does amber look like?
There are many shapes and colors. Not all amber is golden and transparent; there are also opaque, reddish, brown, and green versions.
The shape, color, and transparency depend on several factors: the type of tree, the age of the resin, the minerals it was in contact with…
And if you ever see a piece of amber with an insect inside, it's real: it could be 30, 40, or even 50 million years old. There are pieces with flowers, feathers, lizards… It's like holding a little piece of the past in your hand.
How does amber affect us emotionally?
It's a stone that brings calm and warmth, like a hug from within. It helps cleanse negative emotions, provides mental clarity, and many people feel it restores their confidence when they carry it.
I see it as a stone of new beginnings: it helps you leave behind what weighs you down and reconnect with yourself. If you're going through a period of change or personal growth, amber can be a wonderful companion.
Physical and chemical properties
Physical properties
When you touch amber, it becomes charged with static electricity. This was already noticed by the Greek philosopher Thales of Miletus. Amber releases negative ions, which make you feel better: they reduce stress, improve mood, and help you sleep.
Chemical properties
Baltic amber contains between 3 and 8% succinic acid , a molecule that helps regenerate cells, strengthens natural defenses, and has anti-inflammatory effects. It also contains camphor (a soothing compound) and terpenes (which have a warming effect).
In lithotherapy
Amber is associated with the sacral chakra , which relates to creativity, emotions, and vital energy. Wearing it as jewelry or simply having it nearby can help you feel more centered, more like yourself.
If you meditate or practice yoga, it's a great complement. You can also use it in oil or powder form, depending on the situation.
Amber in perfumery
Although we primarily use vegetable amber in jewelry, in perfumery we use ambergris , which comes from the sperm whale (yes, it's unusual). It has a warm, woody scent with an animalic touch… and it fixes perfumes very well.
Today, for ethical reasons, a synthetic version is usually used. But its legend lives on in the most exclusive perfumes.
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Amber and zodiac signs
Amber goes well with all signs, but there are some that it goes particularly well with:
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Leo: Strengthens your energy and natural light
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Aquarius: helps them to stabilize emotionally
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Aries: balance your inner fire
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Cancer: softens intense emotions and provides security
It is a warm, welcoming stone that adapts to what you need at the moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you tell if amber is real?
It's best to buy from trusted stores. But if you want to try:
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Amber smells like resin when heated.
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If you rub it, it becomes electrically charged.
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It floats in salt water.
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It does not dissolve in acetone.
How to use it?
You can wear it as a necklace, bracelet, or ring. You can also keep a stone in your pocket or on your nightstand, or use amber oil. The important thing is that it touches your skin or is near you.
How does an amber necklace work?
It's not magic, but it is natural science. In contact with the skin, amber releases small amounts of molecules like succinic acid, which help to soothe, relieve, and strengthen. Like a constant mini natural treatment.
