How to Distinguish Genuine Amber from Imitations
Amber is one of the oldest and most cherished gemstones, treasured for its beauty and mystical properties for thousands of years. Even ancient civilizations believed amber could cure a variety of ailments. Beyond its healing reputation, amber is celebrated as a powerful amulet—a timeless source of energy, optimism, and intuition that helps turn dreams into reality.
With global demand for amber on the rise, counterfeit versions have become increasingly common. While the most reliable method to verify amber’s authenticity is through infrared spectroscopy, traditional methods can also help identify genuine amber if laboratory testing is unavailable.
Traditional Methods to Test Amber Authenticity
- Saltwater Test
Amber’s natural composition allows it to float in saltwater. Dissolve 10 teaspoons of salt in 250 ml of water and place the amber into the solution. Genuine amber will float, while imitations will usually sink. Note: this method does not work on amber set in metal. - Burn Test
Burning authentic amber releases the scent of pine resin. Imitations, however, often smell like burning plastic. - Ether Test
Place a drop of ether on the amber. If the surface becomes sticky, damaged, or forms a hole, the material is not real amber. - Ultraviolet Light Test
Under ultraviolet light, genuine amber exhibits photoluminescence, showing colors like blue, greenish, bluish, or brown.
In-Store Methods to Identify Fake Amber
If you are shopping and unable to perform the traditional tests, use these in-store techniques:
- Weight Check: Real amber is naturally lightweight. If a piece feels unusually heavy, it may be a fake.
- Temperature Test: Authentic amber feels warm to the touch, unlike plastic imitations, which tend to feel cool.
- Veins and Air Bubbles: Natural amber veins are irregular, and air bubbles within genuine amber vary in size and distribution.
- Surface Examination: Inspect the piece closely. If the beads contain shiny, uniformly sized fragments, it is likely a fake mimicking amber’s natural fractures.
Additional Tips for Buying Genuine Amber
Genuine amber pieces often have a simple, unembellished appearance and fewer inclusions. Always ask the seller for a certificate of authenticity to verify the quality and origin of the amber.
At Whole Amber, we specialize in wholesale amber products and raw materials, ensuring that every piece meets the highest standards of authenticity. Our commitment to quality allows businesses worldwide to access genuine amber for crafting, manufacturing, or resale. Trust Whole Amber as your reliable partner in providing only authentic amber products.
