Baltic Amber Inclusion Containing Plant Leaf and Small Insect
Angiosperm leaf fragment cf. Fagaceae or similar deciduous woodland flora, with undetermined small insect inclusion • Body fossil / Amber inclusion (Plant and Invertebrate)
Geological Period
Eocene (Paleogene)
Estimated Age
33 to 48 million years
Preservation Type
Three-dimensional fossil resin (amber) encasement providing exceptional soft-tissue and structural preservation via rapid dehydration and stabilization in polymerized tree resin
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The amber piece is smoothly polished into an oval cabochon shape with minor surface wear typical of tumbled amber, providing clear optical access to the internal floral inclusion.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Tracheophyta, Class Magnoliopsida (Angiosperms); Invertebrata (Insecta)
Morphological Description
The specimen features a clearly suspended, flattened organic fragment identified as a dicotyledonous leaf with visible reticulate venation and a distinct petiole/margin. Adjacent to or contained within the same amber matrix are small microscopic particulates and a minor insect inclusion visible as a dark silhouette near the lower-left quadrant.
Rock Matrix
Polished and tumbled natural amber (fossilized tree resin) matrix with transparent to translucent golden-honey coloration
Formation & Location
Baltic amber region, primarily along the shores of the Baltic Sea (specifically Samland peninsula, Kaliningrad Oblast, Russia, and surrounding deposits)
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 20 mm to 30 mm along the major axis of the amber nodule, consistent with standard mid-sized cabochons or tumbled Baltic amber pieces
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$40 - $120 USD
Rarity Assessment
Uncommon. While Baltic amber itself is relatively abundant, well-defined macroscopic botanical inclusions like intact leaves combined with secondary insect inclusions are less common than isolated small insects.
Scientific Significance
Provides direct evidence of Eocene forest composition, microhabitats, and paleoclimate conditions, offering insights into ancient angiosperm morphology and plant-insect interactions
Preparation Recommendations
Store away from direct ultraviolet (UV) light and excessive heat to prevent photo-oxidation, crazing, and degradation of the amber. Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth; avoid harsh organic solvents like alcohol or acetone.
Notable Features
The preservation of a relatively large leaf structure with visible reticulate venation trapped inside transparent golden amber, accompanied by a smaller secondary insect inclusion.