Amber with Insect Inclusion
Insecta indet. (cf. Diptera or Hymenoptera based on general silhouette) • Amber inclusion, body fossil of an invertebrate
Geological Period
Paleogene/Neogene (often associated with Oligocene or Miocene deposits, or Cretaceous depending on origin)
Estimated Age
23 to 33 million years (Oligocene) or up to 99 million years (Cretaceous)
Preservation Type
Amber preservation (fossilized tree resin trapping and preserving biological tissue in three dimensions)
Condition Assessment
Good condition, polished into a smooth cabochon shape with a clearly visible central inclusion and minimal surface scratching
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Arthropoda, Class Insecta, Order Indeterminate
Morphological Description
Small, droplet-shaped polished amber piece containing a dark, elongated insect inclusion visible through the translucent resin matrix. Appendages and exact segmentation are partially obscured due to angle and lighting.
Rock Matrix
Polished fossilized tree resin (amber), with no traditional sedimentary rock matrix attached
Formation & Location
Baltic region (Baltic Amber) or Dominican Republic (Dominican Amber)
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 10-15 mm in length for the amber piece, typical for small cabochon-cut inclusions
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
20 to 50 USD
Auction Estimate
15 to 40 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common, amber with small insect inclusions is widely available on the market
Scientific Significance
Provides direct evidence of ancient forest ecosystems, micro-climates, and insect morphology from the Cenozoic or Mesozoic eras
Preparation Recommendations
Keep away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and organic solvents like acetone. Store in a stable humidity environment and display in a UV-protected case.
Notable Features
Clear amber clarity allowing a direct look at the trapped organism, shaped into a smooth wearable or displayable cabochon