Baltic Amber with Insect Inclusion
Insecta indet. (cf. order Diptera) • Body fossil (amber inclusion) of an invertebrate
Geological Period
Paleogene (Eocene epoch)
Estimated Age
33 to 56 million years
Preservation Type
Three-dimensional organic preservation trapped in fossilized tree resin (amber)
Condition Assessment
Good condition; the amber has been skillfully cut and polished into a smooth cabochon, though the inclusion's fine anatomical details are partially obscured by the darkness and lighting glare in the upper half
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Arthropoda, Class Insecta, Order Diptera or Hymenoptera (ambiguous due to image resolution)
Morphological Description
Polished, cabochon-cut amber piece displaying a warm, translucent brownish-orange lower section grading into a darker, opaque upper zone. A dark, organic-looking inclusion is visible near the lower-left quadrant.
Rock Matrix
Fossilized tree resin (succinite) with no traditional sedimentary rock matrix attached
Formation & Location
Baltic Sea region, likely derived from the Blue Earth formation
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 1.5 cm to 2.0 cm in length, consistent with typical small polished amber cabochons containing single insect inclusions
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $100 USD
Auction Estimate
$20 - $80 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common, as Baltic amber with small insect inclusions is widely available on the market
Scientific Significance
Provides direct evidence of Cenozoic forest ecosystems, ancient arthropod diversity, and paleoclimate conditions during the Eocene
Preparation Recommendations
Keep away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and organic solvents. Store in a stable, climate-controlled environment to prevent oxidation and crazing
Notable Features
Features a striking two-tone color zoning in the resin, transitioning from clear golden-orange to dark brown, with a visible silhouette of an enclosed insect