Amber is a fossilized tree resin that is sometimes used in jewelry or other ornamental objects. One of the most common colors for amber is a golden yellow, but it can also come in shades of reddish orange, milky white, green or black. Although technically an organic substance, amber is often referred to as a gemstone.
Amber Throughout History
To the ancient Greeks, amber was known as elektron, due to the fact that it stores static electricity.
Because amber can contain small insects or bits of plant life, to some civilizations it was thought to be a vessel of eternal youth.
The Phoenicians and Etruscans believed that amber warded off evil spirits.
The Chinese believed that amber was the soul of a tiger that had passed into the earth.
An ancient trade route known as the Amber Road brought amber from the Baltic coast to areas of Italy, Greece, Egypt and Asia.
Spiritual and Healing Properties of Amber
Amber is believed to ground higher energies into the earth plane, helping to bring about a balance to the mind, body and spirit.
Amber feels slightly warm to the touch and is aptly associated with the element of Fire.
Amber helps to bring about a sense of calm, balance and peace. It can also be uplifting and is used by some people to alleviate feelings of sadness or depression.
Although primarily associated with the third or Solar Plexus chakra, amber can also assist in opening the throat chakra and enhance creative self-expression.
Amber can stimulate the intellect and promote self-confidence. Excellent at removing self-imposed obstacles.
Amber is also known to absorb negative energy and transmute it into positive energy. At times it is also used to absorb physical and psychic pain.
Because amber can be a link from the earthly plane to the higher spiritual plane, it is excellent to use during meditation.
Amber is fairly soft, so care should be used when handling it. Cleaning should be done with lukewarm water and a soft, flannel cloth. Never use hot water, detergents or jewelry cleaning solutions. It's also important not to store amber in direct sunlight or near anything hot, such as a stove or heater.
Disclaimer: The healing benefits mentioned in this article are not meant to replace the care of a qualified physician or medical practitioner.
