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In days gone by, amber was claimed to possess the power of healing. Worn as a necklace or charm, or carried around in small bags, amber was believed to be a remedy against ailments such as gout, rheumatism, sore throats, toothache, and stomach-ache. It was also believed that amber accelerated birth and was a good remedy against snake bites. To guard against the swapping of a new born baby, the infant was often given an amber necklace to wear. Amber was supposed to contain magical powers, which is why heart shaped amber charms were carried to offer protection against evil forces and help against witchcraft. Amber is often used to make jewelry, fashion and home accessories. It would therefore be important to know whether you have a genuine or fake piece. This is especially important if you are buying a large piece by weight.

Tips to determine whether you have the real thing or a fake:

If you put a few drops of alcohol on a stone and it evaporates easily and the surface does not become sticky, the amber is genuine. If the surface becomes sticky, you have a fake.

Let salt dissolve in hot water, put the amber in the water, if the amber floats you have a genuine piece. If it sinks, you have a fake.

Once you have purchased genuine amber jewelry, which could be expensive, you want to care for your investment.

Here are a few tips:

-Don’t leave your amber jewelry in direct sunlight.
-Use your perfume before you wear your amber jewelry.
-Avoid contact with any household cleaners.
-Clean with a solution of mild soap and warm water.
-You can polish you amber jewelry and give it a nice shine with olive oil.