Baltic Amber with Plant and Insect Inclusions
Indeterminate insect and botanical micro-inclusions cf. Order Diptera and plant debris • Body fossil (amber inclusion) preserving fossilized tree resin containing biological inclusions
Geological Period
Paleogene (Eocene epoch)
Estimated Age
33 to 56 million years old
Preservation Type
Exceptional three-dimensional fossilization via amber preservation (polymerized tree resin encapsulation)
Condition Assessment
Good condition; the amber has been professionally cut and polished into a cabochon shape, displaying high surface luster with minor internal stress fractures and particulate debris typical of natural amber
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Arthropoda, Class Insecta / Kingdom Plantae (mixed inclusions within fossilized resin)
Morphological Description
Polished, cabochon-cut amber piece displaying warm golden-brown to deep reddish-orange tones with numerous dark particulate inclusions, fragmented organic matter, and tiny opaque whitish mineral or air inclusions suspended within the resin matrix
Rock Matrix
Fossilized tree resin (amber) without a traditional mineral rock matrix, highly polished and translucent to transparent
Formation & Location
Baltic region (specifically around the Samland Peninsula of Kaliningrad, Russia, or surrounding Baltic Sea coastal deposits)
Size & Dimensions
Estimated maximum dimension of approximately 2 to 3 cm, typical for polished cabochons of Baltic amber containing small inclusions
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
30 to 100 USD
Auction Estimate
25 to 75 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common, as Baltic amber with insect and plant debris is frequently recovered from Northern European deposits, though specimens with exceptionally well-defined singular insects are rarer
Scientific Significance
Provides direct preservation of Cenozoic forest floor and canopy ecosystems, allowing researchers to study ancient paleoclimates, atmospheric gas composition trapped in bubbles, and early Tertiary terrestrial biodiversity
Preparation Recommendations
Keep stored away from direct sunlight, high heat, and extreme humidity fluctuations to prevent oxidation and crazing; clean gently with a soft, damp cloth and store in a stable, UV-protected environment
Notable Features
Rich reddish-orange color gradient, internal cloudiness (staining), and scattered dark particulate inclusions creating a textured, natural aesthetic appeal suitable for jewelry or educational display