Amber is a fossilized tree resin that often has a yellowish-orange color. It can be found in various shades, ranging from a light honey hue to deeper, more vivid tones. Amber is often used in jewelry and ornaments due to its beauty and durability. In addition, it sometimes contains inclusions—such as bubbles or even trapped insects—that can provide valuable information about ancient ecosystems.
The word "amber" originates from the Middle English word "amber", which came from Old French "ambre". This, in turn, is derived from the Arabic word "anbar", referring to ambergris, a substance associated with the sperm whale, which was often confused with amber. The connection highlights amber’s long-standing historical and cultural significance.