Real vs. Fake Amber: The Ultimate Test Guide

Baltic amber teething necklaces are prized for their natural beauty and alleged healing benefits. However, not all amber on the market is authentic. Fake amber made of plastic or resin can be misleading and ineffective. Here’s how to tell if your amber necklace is genuine.

1. Visual Clues: Genuine Baltic amber beads often have small imperfections, such as tiny cracks, inclusions, or cloudiness. If the beads are too perfect, uniform, or shiny, they may be fake. True amber is also lightweight, so it shouldn’t feel heavy in your hand.

2. Float Test: One of the simplest tests is the saltwater float test. Mix 5 part salt with 1 parts warm water and stir until dissolved. Drop your amber necklace in. Real amber will float; plastic or resin will usually sink. This can be tough while the necklace clasp is heavy. You'll want to be sure to use PLENTY of salt to make the necklace float. 

3. Heat Test: When gently heated, real amber gives off a sweet, pine-like smell. Be cautious: don’t use an open flame. Instead, rub it briskly with a soft cloth to warm it by friction. If you detect the signature aroma, it's likely genuine.

4. UV Light Test: Under UV or blacklight, genuine Baltic amber glows a pale blue or green. Counterfeit materials typically don’t fluoresce the same way.

5. Professional Certification: Reputable vendors provide lab certification or sourcing documentation. At BalticEssentials.com, all our amber is lab-tested and sourced from Lithuania.

Knowing the signs of authentic amber protects your child and ensures you're getting the benefits you're paying for. Don't compromise on quality. Shop smart and always buy from trusted sellers.