[George Leigh]

Can anybody tell me about amber, a type of semiprecious stone? Can it be cut and faceted like stones? Or can it be drilled like pearls? Is one color better or more desirable than others, what I've got is loose stones in a box that vary from almost clear, to varying rootbeer colors to some that are very dark like a Cocacola color. There is one large chunk about as big as a radish, many a little smaller, then down to bits that are cherry pit sized. Is this weighed by the carat weight system to determine how large a piece is. Thank you for any information.

[hheath541]

yes, amber can be cut, but it takes someone who knows how to work with amber to do so. While it CAN be faceted, it usually isn't. Amber can also be drilled, but once again it takes someone who knows how to work with amber.

amber is actually petrified tree sap. It can turn into a jelly-like substance if left in water or exposed repeatedly. It melts under heat, and produces a smell like warm honey.

specimens in the yellow to orange range are generally preferred. However, the most determining factor is clarity. The fewer trapped debris, the higher it's value. Generally. The exception is when there is a particularly well-preserved insect, or other creature, present in the amber. When that's the case the value goes up, especially if it is the only, or nearly so, impurity in the stone.

as far as I can tell, amber is subject to the same carat grading system as other gemstones.

if you choose to get your pieces cut, be SURE to get someone who has real experience working with amber. It is too easy to ruin a good piece of amber from inexperience. Ask to see examples of their work and, if possible, observe them.