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Postal Address: P.O. Box 371, South Berwick, Maine 03908 Tel: 207.384.2882 Updated: 06.24.2006 Town of South Berwick, Maine
How to turn seemingly insignificant fragments into exquisite jewelry? The answer lies in the secrets of molded amber. Solar stones, sought after worldwide for their brightness and durability, find a unique expression in domestic gems, outshining even their Baltic counterparts. With a rich palette ideal for carving, inlaying, and three-dimensional construction, the popularity of solidified resin is on the rise. However, its supply is finite, necessitating a focus on rational use. In this article, we unravel the captivating process of turning amber crumbs and debris into real treasures. In this article, we unravel the captivating process of turning amber crumbs and debris into real treasures, guided by the expertise and commitment to the quality offered by yantar.ua.
In the geological tapestry of the Rivne, Volyn, and Zhytomyr regions, amber emerges as a unique relic. Unlike minerals that can regenerate through geological cycles, the raw material for solidified resin is absent due to the lack of current climatic, geographical, and biological factors. To trace its origins, we delve into the distant past—tens of centuries ago during the Cretaceous and Paleogene periods.
Back then, the landscape of northwestern Europe differed drastically. The area, including parts of Ukraine, was land, forming the mainland of Fennoscandia. Lush forests, resembling tropical African landscapes, thrived with deciduous and coniferous trees. Pinus succinifera pines, reaching towering heights, held a unique role. In times of adversity, the trees exuded resin that would harden, preserving itself in the local soil rich in aluminosilicates, iron, silicon, and potassium oxide.
Tragically, this primeval forest met its end around 18,000 years ago, succumbing to arctic glaciers. The abrupt cooling and drought led to the extinction of the endemic biocenosis that played a crucial role in the transformation of resin into the mesmerizing gems we know as amber. While younger equivalents like copal, hedanite, zigburite, kadinene, and krantzite are available, they are considered "immature" or "rotten," lacking the luster and medicinal properties of their ancient counterpart.
Polish amber, a complex polymeric substance, stands out for its amalgamation of organic and inorganic characteristics. Unlike crystalline gemstones, it lacks a crystalline structure but can burn, releasing a pleasant aroma, and melt when subjected to heat or pressure. This property allows the transformation of small, asymmetrical gems considered industrial waste into molded amber through a hydraulic press.
The quest to mold amber dates back to ancient times. However, effective technology only emerged in the 18th century, patented by Austrian scientist Trebich and engineer Frederick Egge from Connecticut (USA). The process involves placing amber pieces in a steel container, subjecting them to pressure until they fuse into a monolith. This careful procedure, monitored closely to prevent charring, transforms the microscopic architecture of the gems.
The critical phase follows the completion of formation. Careful cooling over 6-12 hours ensures the strength of the resulting amber blank. Once out of the template shell, the master undertakes the final touches—polishing, removing protrusions, engraving, and adding artistic elements.
Yantar Polissia, the Ukrainian brand, offers an extraordinary assortment of molded gems:
To acquire molded amber, visit our website or explore our offline stores in Kyiv, Dnipro, Lviv, Lutsk, and Rivne, where knowledgeable consultants will help you find a piece that perfectly suits your preferences.
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