Origins of Amber
The name Amber originates from Arabic 'anbar', referring to ambergris, a fragrant substance. It later became associated with the fossilized tree resin known for its golden color.
Amber's Popularity Surge
Amber's popularity soared in the 1960s and '70s in English-speaking countries. The book 'Forever Amber' and the subsequent movie played a significant role in this trend.
Geological Amber Formation
Geologically, amber is fascinating because it forms over millions of years from tree sap. This process of fossilization captures ancient life, including insects, perfectly preserved.
Amber's Color Spectrum
While typically golden, amber can range from yellow to brown. Rare blue amber, primarily found in the Dominican Republic, glows under UV light due to fluorescent elements.
Amber's Cultural Significance
Amber holds significance in many cultures. It's been used in jewelry since antiquity, thought to protect and heal. The Greeks called it 'elektron', linking it to the sun.
Amber in Mythology
In Norse mythology, amber is believed to be the tears of the goddess Freya. Baltic mythology sees amber as sunlight fragments, solidified and washed ashore.
Amber's Scientific Role
In science, amber has contributed to our understanding of prehistoric life. Inclusions within amber have provided valuable insights into ecosystems from millions of years ago.
What does 'amber' originally refer to?
Golden tree resin
Sunlight fragments myth
Arabic for ambergris
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