Amber is a prehistoric fossil of turpentine, which was formed 40 million to 60 million years ago. The main components of amber are carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and a small amount of sulfur. Hardness 2-3, specific gravity 1.05- 1. 10, melting point 150c- 18c. Amber is a very astringent substance. No two amber pieces are exactly the same. Its composition and structure can be identified by scientific instruments. Amber is generally identified according to its low specific gravity and hardness, in addition, its refractive index is also very special.
Extended data 1, salt water test method: the density of amber is between 1.05- 1. 10. In 1: 4 (salt: water) saturated brine, amber, light plastic and resin can float, while ordinary plastic, glass, acrylic and bakelite sink. Friendly reminder: this method is limited to naked amber. Amber with a lot of impurities in its body will sink if the salt water concentration is not heavy enough.
2, thermal measurement: the needle burns in an inconspicuous place of amber, with a faint pine fragrance. Bakelite and plastic smell pungent and stick to needles. Friendly reminder: Too hot will leave black spots on the amber surface, which will affect the appearance.
3, knife cutting needle pick test: paper knife cutting amber will become powder, resin will fall off in pieces, plastic will become coils, glass can not be cut. When you flush amber with a hard needle at an angle of 20-30 degrees from the horizontal line, you will feel explosive and there will be very fine powder residue. If it is plastic or other substances with different hardness, it will not stick, or it will feel sticky, or even stick in.
References:
Baidu encyclopedia-beeswax