Amber

Amber is ancient tree resin that has been preserved over millions of years. Trees produce resin to defend themselves from predators and other threats. If the conditions are just right with proper burial, pressure, and temperature, after millions of years the resin will cross-link and polymerize sufficiently to be classified as amber.

Sometimes before amberization, small insects or plants  get trapped in the sticky goo.  Over time, they become mummified providing valuable clues about ancient forest ecosystems. Click here to see how x-rays can reveal some of the mysteries behind the  insects trapped in amber.

Museum of the Earth will host a special display of amber from its permanent collections from October 3, 2009 - February 21, 2010, in the exhibition Ancient Amber: Letting the Past Shine Through.  Come learn more about this unique treasure of the past and explore the creatures locked in its primordial grip.

Photo courtesy of Joseph L. Casciano