Amber!

Amber is the fossilized tree resin that flowed from ancient trees, millions of years ago. Although amber does not have the same chemical or crystalline structure as a mineral, it is also classified as a semi-precious gemstone. Baltic amber, in particular, is prized throughout the world for its variety of colors, which can range anywhere from a milky honey colored stone to a deep, dark, transparent green. If you are shopping for amber, be on the lookout for bonded amber. This type of amber gemstone is actually composed of smaller pieces of amber that have been stuck together using a binding agent. Bonded amber costs significantly less than natural amber, so always ask what treatments your amber beads have undergone before making a purchase.

Amber that has whole insects or plants encased within it is particularly sought after, but a word of caution: if you find a piece of amber with a large insect inside of it, expect to pay top dollar for such a sample. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.

(When Is a Gemstone Not a Gemstone? 06-18-2012 by Jennifer VanBenschoten)
 
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