Baltic Amber Beads - Do They Contain Succinic Acid?

Adding acetone to a Baltic amber bead is one of the most effective ways to clean this natural material, but how do you know if the bead you are cleaning contains succinic acid? Read on to discover how to clean your bead properly. Also, find out how to test your Baltic amber beads to see whether or not they are affected by succinic acid.

Adding acetone to a Baltic Amber Bead

Adding acetone to a Baltic amber bead is a simple method for cleaning amber. The Baltic amber should be light blue in color. The lighter the amber, the more glow it gives off in UV light. Darker amber has a purple glow. However, it is still possible to tell if your amber is genuine by inspecting it visually.

Adding acetone to a Baltic amber bead is an excellent way to identify real amber from synthetic resin. The genuine stuff will not react to acetone. It will remain sticky and the color of the fake will rub off on a cloth. When done correctly, it will not turn tacky and wipe clean with a cotton ball. To avoid this, you should keep your amber bead away from heat sources.

Cleaning a Baltic Amber Bead

To care for your Baltic amber bead properly, it is important to keep it away from metals and other jewelry. To protect the natural beauty of your amber necklace, store it in a soft pouch with a drawstring. Cleaning the bead is also an important step in caring for it. With proper care, your amber can last up to two years! Here's how to do it!

First, use lukewarm water to clean your amber beads. Avoid using brushes or scourts, as these may scratch the surface. To remove dirt and other debris from your necklace, use a soft cloth made of wool or flannel. A silver polishing cloth is the best material to use if you are cleaning your amber frequently. Afterward, dry the piece thoroughly. Lastly, polish it with clear olive oil to maintain its natural beauty.

Testing a Baltic Amber Bead for succinic acid

In an attempt to understand the medicinal uses of amber, scientists are now examining whether or not this natural substance can be used for pain relief. Succinic acid is an anion that has multiple biological functions, including serving as a metabolic signaling molecule and generating energy in the mitochondria of cells. Amber is a great source of succinic acid, and it is believed to have many benefits, including soothing the skin and relieving pain in teething babies. Although amber has many imitative stones, the traces of succinic acid found in amber can be absorbed by the skin and injected into the blood.

However, if you are looking for an authentic Baltic amber bead, you must be aware of its sensitivity to soap residue and other products. Those products may contain succinic acid, and it is best to avoid them while wearing amber. Even though these substances are safe, amber is brittle, and if it isn't properly cared for, it could break. Also, it may become coated with soap scum, which will inhibit succinic acid release. Hence, you may want to replace your amber beads after some time. In addition, the lighter the color of Baltic amber is, the more powerful its effects.