How is amber divided?
The stones are distinguished by weight and grade, said Stepan Tymchuk. In particular, they are divided into fractions by weight - from the smallest (stones from 0 to 2 grams) to the largest with unique specimens of a kilogram or more.
To find out the quality of the stone, it is shone through. Amber of the first grade has no dirt or cracks inside. Separately, there are second, third or fourth, layered and foamy grades.
When viewed through, stones of the third or fourth grade have cracks and other imperfections. Jewelers consider layered and foamy stones to be poor material, so they are the cheapest.
The purity of the stone depends on how it was being molded. If the resin flowed down the wood and there were no impurities, the stone would be clean, but if there was some debris, the stone would be dirty, explained gemologist Stepan.
How much does amber cost?
A fraction of 5-10 grams, if it is the first or second grade, i.e. a gemstone, will cost $400 per kilogram. If the amber is cracked, "dirty," the price will be two times lower.
Which variety is the most popular?
The first or second grade stone is easily sold. It is clean, jewelry-grade, easy to process, and there is almost no waste from it, the gemologist said.
In order to process a stone with cracks, you need to put a lot of effort into making a product or piece of jewelry out of it. In addition, there is a lot of waste, so it costs less.
Why is Polissya amber valuable?
The variety of colors is the first feature of Polissya amber. There are stones with beautiful patterns, "landscape" and white colors. The latter are the most valuable. There are also transparent versions.
In addition, Polissya amber is usually larger than Kaliningrad amber, the gemologist added.
How to check amber for authenticity?
The amber industry often encounters counterfeits. It can be glass or any kind of plastic.
Since amber has a density slightly higher than salt water, it is easy to detect a fake. It is enough to dip it in: if it floats in salted water, it is a real stone.
Watch an interview with hematologist Stepan Tymchuk on our YouTube channel.