How to Test Amber Gemstones
Do the static test., Know what to expect from each type of amber., Check your amber piece for seams and mold marks, which indicate it may actually be made from plastic.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Do the static test.
Vigorously rub your amber on some wool for about 20 seconds to create static. Take a strand of hair and place the static-charged amber close to it. Real genuine amber should quickly attract the hair towards it, with the hair gently sticking to the gemstone. If no static is produced after rubbing on wool (ie it doesn't attract the hair) then you might have a piece of fake amber. -
Step 2: Know what to expect from each type of amber.
Genuine amber is lightweight and warm to touch, not cold and heavy like glass.
Loose amber beads can be tested in salt water. Add 25g of salt to 200ml water in a glass and drop your amber into it. Genuine amber should float, not quickly sink to the bottom.
Genuine amber reacts to ultraviolet light.
Take your amber into a darkened room and shine a cheap UV torch on it. If it gently glows, it's real. , -
Step 3: Check your amber piece for seams and mold marks
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Step 4: which indicate it may actually be made from plastic.
Detailed Guide
Vigorously rub your amber on some wool for about 20 seconds to create static. Take a strand of hair and place the static-charged amber close to it. Real genuine amber should quickly attract the hair towards it, with the hair gently sticking to the gemstone. If no static is produced after rubbing on wool (ie it doesn't attract the hair) then you might have a piece of fake amber.
Genuine amber is lightweight and warm to touch, not cold and heavy like glass.
Loose amber beads can be tested in salt water. Add 25g of salt to 200ml water in a glass and drop your amber into it. Genuine amber should float, not quickly sink to the bottom.
Genuine amber reacts to ultraviolet light.
Take your amber into a darkened room and shine a cheap UV torch on it. If it gently glows, it's real. ,
About the Author
Margaret Kim
Committed to making pet care accessible and understandable for everyone.
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