Many people know such a stone as amber. The most common version of petrified resin has a brownish honey color. However, there are other varieties of this mineral. White amber possesses high esthetic qualities. Some even attribute to it unique healing and magical properties.
general characteristics
Stones of the milk scale were used in the culture of various peoples in ancient times. All kinds of jewelry and accessories from it were common and therefore did not have high value. They could afford citizens of almost any class. They were actively used by priests when burning incense (a special composition that was used in various ceremonies).
Residents of the East used white stones to treat diseases and get rid of various ailments. And also this element was widely used in decorating houses, pipes and hookahs.
It is worth noting that scientists are also interested in this mineral, exploring its benefits. Succinic acid was found in the light amber variety. It is an effective and natural bioactive element.
Milk amber is highly regarded in China. In Russia, such stones are called dusty, and in the West the mineral is called the royal stone.
A brief description of:
- the hardness of the stone varies from 2 to 2.5 points on the Mohs scale;
- amber has a resinous sheen;
- the average density is 1.05-1.09, and the maximum reaches 1.3 g / cm³;
- lack of adhesions;
- the level of transparency can be different - from completely transparent to completely opposite instances.
Stone formation
Experts voiced two versions of the formation of a mineral of amazing milk color.
- It is believed that the amazing color was due to the content of chalk particles.
- Some people believe that light blotches are small bubbles that get into the resin during the hardening of the resin. It is they who create the illusion of whiteness. The sizes of these bubbles are tiny (microns), and when they accumulate, they create expressive white patterns.
Specialists determined that the white look of amber appeared first in this family. 38 to 54 million years have passed since the formation of such stones.
Varieties
It is worth noting that 80% of all amber in the world is of Baltic origin, for the same reason almost all types of white amber from the same region.
The most valuable stone is the Baltic succinite.
Its significance was noted almost throughout the world.
The most expensive specimen of succinites is considered to be a species called "knoken", it is also "ivory". The stone received this name due to visual similarities with the above natural material. Amber is actively used in the manufacture of jewelry and premium decor items.
Other types of stone are also distinguished.
- Bone amber has a layered color and a light yellow tint. Gloss character matte.
- The lightest weight is foamy amber due to porosity. Due to the special external data, experts compare it with the hardened foam.
- Stones in which inclusion is completely absent (the remains of living organisms) are called white amber.
- Instances with white stains on the surface are called landscape. This is a very rare species.
Production
It is known that cured resin is mined on the territory of all continents. The largest deposits are recorded in Ukraine, the Baltic and Burma. It is worth noting that milk stone often accompanies species of other colors, while the light appearance is very rare. Its share is 1-2% of the total amount of amber.
The mining process requires special care and accuracy. You can’t use standard methods, they can harm fossils. The deposits of stones are shallow, so when using explosives they are destroyed.
Using
As already noted, gemstones with white impregnations are actively used in decor and jewelry.
Light copies are often used in the design of paintings and Christian icons.
And also from them make rosary. Due to the special color, specimens of this species are remarkably combined with other colors and shades, with different metals, including gold and silver.
Dairy varieties of amber are considered universal due to the fact that they are appropriate for any type of appearance and age. And also it harmoniously looks with clothes of any color. White gems are ideal for making men's accessories, such as rings, cufflinks and more.
How to distinguish a fake?
White amber is often used as an imitation of real minerals. Instead of milk stones, artificial materials are used, as well as painted epoxy. To determine the origin of the stone, it is necessary to check its properties.
Natural stone has the following characteristics:
- when heated, the gem emits a light coniferous aroma;
- under the influence of ultraviolet radiation begins to glow;
- a real stone will sink in fresh water, but will swim in salt water;
- if you rub amber on silk material, it will acquire the properties of attracting small fibers and ashes.
Note: it is unrealistic to make a high-quality fake at home. You can only handle the gray options yourself. Such specimens are subjected to heat treatment by immersing in flaxseed oil or flax seed oil. After aniline white paint is mixed in and boiled. Only an expert can accurately determine the type and origin of amber.
Magical qualities
Those who attribute special properties to natural gems consider that milk amber has a light natural strength.
- This is a powerful amulet for women who are going to become mothers. He will protect them from the evil eye and disease. And also white amber facilitates childbirth.
- Light mineral attracts friendship, love and other warm and bright feelings.
- To protect against dark otherworldly forces, a small light ball of amber is stored in clothes.
- The inhabitants of Myanmar give each child frog figurines of light amber. According to them, the talisman will protect against damage.
- A piece of gem is placed under the pillow for a good sleep.
- This stone is wonderful for romantic and sensual natures who expect reciprocal emotions from the object of their desires.
For conducting magic rites, milk stones in gold or copper frames are often used. Adepts from many cultures are convinced that amber is the concentration of the energy of the sun.
Before going to bed, decorations with white amber are best removed. It is believed that under the influence of a gem, people begin to speak in a dream, telling personal secrets.
Healing properties
Since ancient times, stone was used for the preparation of medicinal potions. With the help of amber, they fought with pains in the stomach, heart problems and other ailments.
Currently, the following qualities are attributed to the stone:
- reduction of inflammation of varying severity;
- the establishment of the central nervous system;
- suspension of cirrhosis;
- extermination of malignant tumors in the early stages;
- the fight against varicose veins;
- asthma weakening.
Succinic acid is used commercially as a natural biological stimulant.
Care
You need to care for white specimens in the same way as for other types of amber. It is important to create and maintain the right microclimate in the place where the gem is stored.
- Natural stones negatively tolerate sudden changes in temperature.
- Long exposure to the sun leads to the fact that amber begins to darken. At the same time, insignificant sun baths will be only useful to the gem.
- Amber cannot boast of excellent strength, therefore, when falling from a height or a strong blow, it can be damaged or even split.
- Do not take amber with dirty hands. And also the stone loses attractiveness from contact with chemicals, cosmetics and fat.
- Amber jewelry should be stored in a separate casket with soft upholstery, separately from other products.
- If the room where amber is stored has dry air, the surface may become covered with a fine mesh of cracks. To avoid this, you must periodically do the bath.
Other properties of amber can be found in the video below.