How to Care for Antique Amber | Antique Repair Shop

Amber is fossilised resin. It is lightweight, can carry surface crazing and may be confused with later plastics or other resins.

Safe routine care

Handle gently and protect from scratches, heat and strong light. Separate beads with soft tissue so they do not abrade one another.

What not to do

Avoid alcohol, solvents, ultrasonic cleaners and hot water. Do not rely on destructive burn, needle or solvent tests for identification.

Storage and specialist help

Store in a padded box and ask a gemmologist or conservator for non-destructive examination.

Conservation references

[Canadian Conservation Institute: Caring for objects and collections](https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/care-objects.html)
[Canadian Conservation Institute: Agents of deterioration](https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/agents-deterioration.html)

Begin with the least intervention. For valuable, unstable or regulated objects, use a qualified conservator and check current law before treatment, sale or transport.

Watch careful restoration

Visit the [Antique Repair Shop YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@AntiqueRepairShop) for practical workshop demonstrations and object examinations.