Definition

Fossil tree resin that has reached a stable state through the loss of volatile components and chemical changes after being buried underground.

Major Deposits

Found worldwide, with the largest and most significant deposits along the Baltic Sea in sands that are 40 to 60 million years old.

Physical Appearance

Occurs as irregular nodules, rods, or drop-like shapes in shades of yellow, orange, brown, and occasionally red.

Bone Amber

Milky-white opaque varieties of amber are known as bone amber.

Turbidity

Caused by inclusions of numerous minute air bubbles within the amber.

Fossil Inclusions

Contains many hundreds of species of fossil insects and plants as inclusions.

Gem Quality

Deeply colored translucent to transparent amber is highly valued as a gem material.

Uses

Used to make ornamental carved objects, beads, rosaries, cigarette holders, and pipe mouthpieces.

Amberoid (Pressed Amber)

Made by fusing small pieces of amber under pressure; identified by parallel bands or flow structures distinguishing it from natural amber.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Amber in Antarctica is known for:

(a) Providing fossil evidence of ancient life forms from the Mesozoic era.

(b) Containing the oldest known preserved DNA samples.

(c) Being a significant source of fossilized plant and insect species unique to the region.

(d) Serving as a crucial indicator of past climate conditions in the polar region.

Answer: c

Explanation:

Amber found in Antarctica has provided important insights into ancient life forms, including fossilized plants and insects. These specimens are valuable for understanding the biodiversity that once thrived in the region, especially before the continent became covered in ice.