History of Amber, nature’s masterpieceThe history of Amber is very interesting and has an age old history. It began as an amorphous resin. It is a fossilized resin which has been produced by plants that existed millions of years ago. The stone is not a mineral and is formed naturally. It is considered to be an exquisite possession because of its beauty and mysteries. Just similar to pearl, generated from biological processes. It has also been associated with lignite coal as the latter is also formed from the remains of trees and other plants by products. It is often set in silver and gold jewelry. The trade of Amber for jewelry started between the Mediterranean countries way back during 2500 B.C. The gemstone is very popular and highly valued since ages. The gemstone has been used by artisans for various centuries in creating beautiful amber jewelry and many exclusive piece works of art. About 45 million years ago several tree’s resin got deposited in places presently known as Baltic and Scandinavia. The waterways were carried to the Baltic coastline, the place where largest deposits of the gemstone have been discovered. The gemstone was formed at the bottom of the sea. The resin got fossilized. After the glaciers shifted, the gemstone was discovered beneath earth’s surface. The stone was a prized possession during the Roman Empire. The route that was developed for trading of this gemstone fostered social and economic development in various parts of Europe. Gdansk became the center of amber production during the 11th century. When Teutonic Knights seized Pomerania and Gdansk, many amber craftsmen were employed to create beautiful works out of the gemstone which were sent as official gifts to the royal courts of Europe. Royal people wanted commissioning items crafted from the precious gemstone like caskets, chessboards, cutlery and beer mugs, which were given as official gifts or was used by the court. 17th century was considered to be the best period or the golden age for the gemstone. Apart from its decorative usage, the gemstone was also used for medicinal purpose for treatment of tonsillitis and fever. With the pass of time the gemstone became more and more exclusive and a fashionable stone. Today Gdansk and Poland are the epicenter this gemstone. The history of Amber is truly magnificent isn't it?
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