Amber And Copal Rough
There is much dispute in the amber
community over the difference between amber and copal.
Generally, the main difference between the two is age:
An ancient tree leaked resin. Over time
and with the right environment, this resin dried and became
copal. Through even more time and the correct
environment, this copal becomes amber.
Inclusions of insects or tree bark are
much more common in copal than they are in amber.
Inclusions of complete insects are very rare though.
Most commonly, insect inclusions are just small pieces of
legs or antenna. Some of the pieces we are offering
here do have inclusions. We leave it up to you to determine
what the inclusions are.
There are many tests to help distinguish
between amber and copal. Some people swear by these
tests, others swear that the tests are completely useless.
A few people have their own "secret" tests, some of which
are no more than myths. Since our own tests have been
inconclusive, we've chosen to list this material as copal.
These pieces will make beautiful amber
jewelry. They're also great for study or as an addition to
your fossil collection.
Please click on the thumbnails
below to see larger photos
