Baltic Amber with Insect Inclusions
Insecta indet. (cf. small ant or fly) • Body fossil (amber inclusion), invertebrate classification
Geological Period
Paleogene (Eocene epoch)
Estimated Age
33 to 56 million years old
Preservation Type
Three-dimensional amber preservation (fossilized tree resin encasing soft-tissue organisms)
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The amber is well-polished and clear with minimal surface crazing, though internal inclusions are largely silhouetted and lack microscopic anatomical clarity.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Arthropoda, Class Insecta, Order Hymenoptera/Diptera (indeterminate inclusions)
Morphological Description
The specimen exhibits a polished, teardrop-like amber cabochon containing several dark, silhouetted organic inclusions visible through the translucent golden-orange resin matrix.
Rock Matrix
None (polished fossilized resin/amber gemstone matrix)
Formation & Location
Baltic Sea region, predominantly the Amber Room deposits (Samland Formation, Kaliningrad, Russia)
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 15 mm to 25 mm in length, standard size for processed amber cabochons containing small insect inclusions
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $80
Auction Estimate
$20 - $50
Rarity Assessment
Common, as Baltic amber with small insect inclusions is widely available in the commercial market.
Scientific Significance
Provides insights into Eocene forest ecosystems, paleoclimatology, and ancient insect biodiversity through exceptional 3D soft-tissue entrapment.
Preparation Recommendations
Store away from direct UV light and extreme heat to prevent oxidation and crazing. Keep in a stable, low-humidity environment.
Notable Features
Multiple dark insect inclusions trapped within a warm, translucent yellow-orange resin matrix with natural flow lines.