Amber jewelry is made from the amber gemstone. These types of jewelry have become very popular in recent years. Various museums all over the world display some of the finest and most expensive amber gemstones on earth. Amber can be cut into different sizes and shapes, polished and assembled to make necklaces and pendants. A full collection of amber jewelry may consist of a necklace, bracelets, earrings, rings and/or pendants. Certain pieces of amber jewelry have been made from amber that formed millions of years ago. Most amber gemstones available are thought to be about 30-90 million years old. Amber is typically fossilized plant material formed under extreme conditions in the earth’s crust. The finished amber gemstone is essentially a hard material that can be used to produce different types of jewelry and accessories.

Amber jewelry is typically fashioned with other precious materials to produce a finer finished product which is both pleasing to the eye and of material value. Precious metals such as platinum, gold and silver can be used alongside amber to produce amber jewelry of inestimable value. The most expensive amber jewelry are those made with rare amber gemstones and a combination of precious metals. Amber is a smooth, light gemstone that was famed in the classical era for its healing and soothing powers. Most amber jewelry are handmade. They are cut into desired shapes and sizes and handcrafted with other materials to produce a desired finished product.

Amber jewelry is becoming more expensive as the years go by. This is mainly due to its demand exceeding supply. The existing demand for different amber gemstones and by extension jewelry made from amber exceeds the current supply of available amber. Thus, amber and amber jewelry have become more precious to existing owners ad people pay huge amounts of money to obtain them. This has directly led to the increase of imitation amber on the market. There are several imitation amber pieces made from plastic material. When shopping, beware of these imitation types. Several tests exist that that distinguishes a fake from a real amber gemstone. The simplest test that helps distinguish a fake from the real amber is to simply rub the amber piece vigorously and have it attract any lint particles available. Amber, especially the Baltic variety usually floats in salt water. This may not be a very good way to distinguish real from fake amber jewelry especially those that have been fashioned out from other precious metals as they will sink even if they are made from genuine amber.

Utmost care should be taken to preserve amber gemstones and jewelry. Keep them away from extreme heat to ensure that they last longer and do not tarnish easily. Good amber jewelry can last a lifetime without tarnishing, especially those made with different precious metals. Amber jewelry can be obtained in many jewelry stores, but it is advisable to always go with an expert or learn different methods which will help you distinguish the genuine from the fake amber gemstones.