Baltic Amber Insect Inclusion
Insecta indet. (requires microscopic examination for precise family or genus identification) • Amber inclusion, body fossil of an invertebrate
Geological Period
Paleogene (Eocene)
Estimated Age
33 to 45 million years old
Preservation Type
Three-dimensional organic preservation trapped in fossilized tree resin (amber), preserving soft tissues and fine external morphological structures.
Condition Assessment
Good. The amber piece is polished with smooth exterior surfaces, minor surface wear, and a clearly visible interior inclusion though some cloudiness or optical distortion may be present.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Arthropoda, Class Insecta, Order undetermined (likely Diptera or Hymenoptera based on general inclusion appearance)
Morphological Description
The specimen exhibits a translucent, warm amber matrix with a polished, droplet-like asymmetrical shape. Inside, a dark, rounded inclusion is centrally visible with faint shadowy appendages or structural outlines extending from the main body mass, indicative of a small trapped terrestrial insect.
Rock Matrix
Fossilized tree resin (amber/succinite), clear with warm yellow-brown hues and minor natural flow lines.
Formation & Location
Baltic region (Northern Europe, typically associated with the Blue Earth formation)
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 15 mm in maximum length, typical for small cabochon-cut amber pieces containing micro-inclusions.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$30 to $100 USD
Auction Estimate
$25 to $75 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common. Baltic amber containing small insect inclusions is widely available on the market.
Scientific Significance
Amber inclusions provide exceptional three-dimensional preservation of ancient forest ecosystems, offering vital clues into Eocene insect biodiversity, paleoclimatology, and evolutionary history.
Preparation Recommendations
Store in a stable environment away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and organic solvents (like alcohol or acetone) to prevent oxidation, crazing, or degradation of the amber.
Notable Features
Features a distinct dark, well-defined inclusion centrally suspended within a warm, honey-colored amber cabochon, capturing a snapshot of ancient Eocene forest life.