Amber is a type of fossilized tree resin that has hardened over millions of years. It is typically yellow or brown in color and is often used in jewelry and decorative objects due to its beauty and rarity.
Amber forms when certain types of trees produce a resin, which is a sticky, viscous substance that helps to protect the tree from insects, fungi, and other threats. Over time, the resin may harden and become buried by sediment, which can protect it from decay and preserve it for millions of years.
As the resin hardens and fossilizes, it can trap small insects, plant material, and other debris, providing a valuable record of ancient ecosystems and biodiversity. Amber has been found in deposits all over the world, from the Baltic region of Europe to the Dominican Republic, and is prized by collectors and scientists alike for its beauty and scientific value.
Overall, amber is a fascinating substance that provides important insights into the history of life on Earth and the processes that have shaped our planet over millions of years.