Amber

Amber can preserve a moment for millions of years, hold a static charge, float in salt water and carry the remains of ancient insects. Yet despite its place in jewellery history, it is not actually a mineral or a stone. In this episode of Gem Pursuit, Matthew Weldon is joined by gemologist Colin Weldon to explore how amber forms, why it feels warm to the touch and what separates natural amber from convincing imitations. They follow amber’s journey along the ancient Amber Road, examine its use in Roman, medieval and Arts and Crafts jewellery, and investigate what colour, clarity, condition and unusual inclusions can do to its value. The conversation also takes in the science behind Jurassic Park, the mystery of the missing Amber Room and one of Europe’s largest surviving amber specimens. www.courtville.ie www.gempursuit.com Get social with Courtville, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok This podcast was produced for Courtville by Tape Deck