Baltic Amber & Carnelian Earrings

Amber is a natural material made up of fossilized tree resin. It varies in color from yellow to brown to red and is often transparent with plant or insect inclusions. Baltic Amber, which is usually considered to be the finest, was formed from the resins of coniferous trees 30 to 60 million years ago but younger Ambers exist and are known to come from the Dominican Republic. Amber can be ignited by a match and smells like incense and when rubbed with a cloth it becomes electrically charged and can attract small particles. The largest deposit in the world is in Kaliningrad, Russia and only 15% of what is mined is suitable for jewelry. There are also large reserves on the seabed of the Baltic. After heavy storms it is common for Amber have washed up on shore or to be found in shallow waters.

Carnelian got its name from its resemblance in color to the Kornel cherry, although colors can range from pale orange to deep red-orange. Carnelian, being a Chalcedony, is arranged in fibrous layers, giving it its stripes. The finest material comes from India but a lot of what is on the market comes from Brazil & Uruguay. In ancient times it was believed a bit of Carnelian would give the wearer courage in battle and help timid speakers become bold and eloquent. It supports qualities of leadership and courage.