Amber is the fossilised resin of ancient pine trees.  Our Amber comes from the Baltic region and was formed during the Eocene geological period , about 44 million years ago, when the Baltic region was experiencing a semi -tropical climate.  As the resin seeped from the trees it began to solidify on the tree bark or fell to the forest floor , often being carried to the sea by streams. This is why originally much Amber was found washed up on the beaches. 

Eventually as the trees  died and fell to the ground , layers of sediments, sands  , gravels covered the ancient forests and a process known as molecular polymerization occured forming what is known as `copal`. Further heat and pressure was applied  by the overlying sediments to evenually create Amber. 

Amber was one of the commodities traded along the famous "Amber Road" , which lead from the Baltic to the Mediterranean , and then onto the " Silk Route"  to the East. 

A birthstone for Aries and Leo, it is said to promote courage , vitality and personal growth.