Baltic Amber Insect Inclusion
cf. Formica sp. (Ant inclusion) • Body fossil preserved as an amber inclusion (invertebrate)
Geological Period
Paleogene (Eocene epoch)
Estimated Age
33 to 56 million years old
Preservation Type
Exceptional three-dimensional preservation via fossilized tree resin (amber), retaining fine external anatomical structures in organic detail.
Condition Assessment
Good, featuring a clearly visible primary insect inclusion alongside minor internal crazing and surface polishing.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Arthropoda, Class Insecta, Order Hymenoptera, Family Formicidae (Ant), Genus cf. Formica
Morphological Description
The specimen features a dark-colored, well-defined insect inclusion clearly showing body segmentation, antennae, and legs trapped within a transparent golden-yellow resin matrix.
Rock Matrix
Polished fossilized tree resin (amber) with minor internal fractures and cloudiness.
Formation & Location
Baltic amber region, primarily around the shores of the Baltic Sea (specifically Eocene amber-bearing deposits like the Blue Earth formation)
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 1.5 cm to 2.5 cm in length, typical for small cabochon-cut amber insect inclusions.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$40 - $120 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common, though specimens with well-centered and distinct insect inclusions are always sought after by amateur collectors.
Scientific Significance
Provides invaluable insights into Eocene forest ecosystems, ancient insect behavior, paleoclimate conditions, and evolutionary morphology of early ants.
Preparation Recommendations
Cut and polished into a cabochon shape. Store away from direct sunlight and extreme heat to prevent oxidation, crazing, and degradation of the amber.
Notable Features
Clear visibility of an ant inclusion near the upper margin, set within warm, translucent golden amber.