How to Tell if Amber Is Real: Identify Genuine Baltic Amber vs Fake
Wondering how to tell if amber is real? With the growing number of fake amber jewellery online, many parents want to know how to identify genuine Baltic amber before buying. In this guide, we explain the most reliable ways to spot real amber and avoid imitations.
Authentic Baltic amber is a natural fossilized tree resin that’s over 45 million years old, carefully mined and handcrafted into genuine Baltic amber jewellery. Because real amber is rare and time-consuming to prepare, understanding how to identify real vs fake amber is essential before purchasing.
Real vs Fake Amber – Key Differences
Knowing the difference between real and fake amber is the first step in protecting yourself from cheap imitations.
Real Baltic amber:
- Feels warm and lightweight
- Contains natural inclusions or tiny bubbles
- Glows under UV light
- Has a soft organic appearance
Fake amber:
- Often made from plastic or glass
- Looks overly perfect or uniform
- Feels cold and heavy like glass
- May smell like chemicals when heated
Home Tests for Amber – Are They Reliable?
If you want to check if amber is real at home, there are a few simple tests — but it’s important to understand their limitations.
Saltwater Test: Real Baltic amber floats in saltwater, but some modern resins can float too.
Static Test: Real amber attracts small particles when rubbed, but plastics may behave similarly.
Scent Test: Warm amber smells pine-like, while fakes smell chemical — but heat may damage jewellery.
The Most Reliable Way to Identify Genuine Baltic Amber
Visual inspection: Authentic amber contains natural imperfections and organic textures.
UV test: Genuine amber glows blue or green under ultraviolet light.
Gemological certification: The most reliable proof of authenticity.
Where to Buy Genuine Baltic Amber Jewellery
Always purchase from trusted sellers offering certified Baltic amber jewellery and transparency about sourcing. At GoAmber, every item is crafted from authentic Baltic amber sourced from the Baltic region.
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FAQ – Genuine Baltic Amber
How can you tell if amber is real at home?
Look for natural inclusions, light weight, warmth to the touch, and UV fluorescence.
Does real amber float in saltwater?
Yes, real amber floats in saltwater, but this test alone is not fully reliable.
Does real amber glow under UV light?
Yes, genuine Baltic amber typically glows blue or green under UV light.
Is cheap amber always fake?
Extremely low prices often indicate imitation materials or synthetic resins.