Amber occurs in many different nuances of colour, from white to yellow, brown and maroon, in some rare examples blue and black. Amber is flammable. In fact, in many languages it is referred to as “burn stone”, for example the German “Bernstein” is derived from Old Low German for burning - “bernen” or “börnen”. Inclusions in amber are particularly fascinating. These organisms - plants and
animals - have been trapped in the fossilised resin and enable us a deep, varied insight into life during the Tertiary period. As a precious stone, amber has been appreciated for more than 6000 years, and it has been traded (along amber routes) for about 4500 years. Due to its soft consistency, it has always been highly sought after for carving and as a mounting stone (amber room). In Germany, some specialist manufacturers produce exquisite jewellery. With high quality and fashionable design, it is no longer the “precious stone for the older generation”.
The OSTSEE-SCHMUCK GmbH is the largest manufacturer with the longest traditions. It was founded in the 1950s and is located in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in Germany, not far from the Baltic coast.