Amber is the fossilised sap of the giant prehistoric conifer 'Pinus Succinfera'. Estimated to be between 40 and 60 million years old, Its use as a trading commodity dates back to 8000 BC. Amber has had various names down the centuries. These include, 'Sunstone', ‘Stone of victory' ,'Adornment of the daughters of Rome', and 'Gold of the North'. Its English name derives from Ancient Arabia where it was burnt as incense and was known as 'anbar' or 'ambar'.
Today, children living in the Baltic region repeat the legend of the Queen of the sea, Jurata, whose palace was built entirely of amber. When she made the mistake of falling in love with a mortal, the King of the Gods shattered her domain. Since then, it is said, multicoloured pieces of her palace have washed ashore to bring the warmth of her love to the fortunate people who find them.
More recently, Peter the Great of Russia was presented with an entire room made of amber by Frederick William I of Prussia. Dismantled during WWII, it has long since disappeared. Amber has been credited with numerous beneficial properties both physical and spiritual. The Ancient Romans and Greeks used it to cure ailments such as asthma, rheumatism and internal problems. It has also been used as an aphrodisiac and to guard against witchcraft. It is now believed to be a good source of beneficial negative ions when worn close to the skin.
Argenteus uses only use Baltic amber as this takes a higher polish than other types and is considered the finest in the world. The workshops that create these spectacular examples are chosen by us for their originality, and the quality. With infinite variations in the colour and appearance of amber, each item of jewellery is just as individual. Millions of years in the making, combined with stunning sterling silver designs. They are truly works of art for you to wear.