Metaphysical and Healing Properties of Amber

Amber is a fossilized tree resin, so it isn't classified as a mineral or stone. It varies in color but is mostly known for being gold, orange, brown or a range in between.

According to Mindat.org, the largest Internet mineral database, much of what is sold as amber isn't true amber at all but merely dried tree resin. True amber takes at least 100,000 years to reach the hardened state it's known for. However, most amber is between 30-90 million years old.¹

Amber sometimes contains inclusions of organic and inorganic material such as extinct insects, sulfur and pyrite. Modern insect inclusions are rare and may actually be an indication of a fraudulent dealer that placed the insect in the amber.²

Amber was used in the ancient past medicinally. In the Middle Ages, it was believed to draw jaundice from the body. In Roman times, it was used to treat swollen glands.³

Amber is still believed to benefit health. It's used to draw pain and disease out of the body by placing it on the affected area. Because of its gold color, it's associated with the solar plexus chakra, the energy center of the body located just above the navel.

This chakra governs all the internal organs in that area and any diseases associated with them. It's also associated with self-esteem and empowerment. The solar plexus controls ambition and drive. Amber helps to activate this chakra and draw negative associations with it. Amber is also used for healing suicidal tendencies and depression.

Amber that is more orange in color can be used for the second chakra, also known as the sexual and creative center. It's located near the reproductive organs. This chakra governs fertility, sexual dysfunction and pleasure and helps clear creative blockages.

While it's is known for drawing out negativity, it also draws good things to those who wear amber jewelry and work with it. It's used for manifestation and believed to bring good luck and money.

Spiritually, it helps with grounding and centering. It can be used in a room or around the home to draw out negativity and change a dark ambiance of a place to that of cheerfulness. It aligns all the bodies with each other - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual so that they are more able to work in tandem with each other.

Amber is popular in magic for protection and sexual pursuits. In Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic, Wiccan author Scott Cunningham suggests using amber to protect yourself from negativity. To do this he says to sit on the floor with a lit white candle and make a circle around yourself with amber beads. Stay in the circle to gain energy and block out negativity.

Cunningham also says amber makes a great protective talisman to carry with you. It's also used in sex and love magic to attract a mate. Since it's good for manifestation, amber is good in prosperity spells.

This information is experimental and isn't meant to replace the advice of your health professional.

Sources consulted:

1. Aber, Susie Ward. Homepage. Welcome to the World of Amber, 1996-2008.
2. Aber, Susie Ward. Life in Amber. Welcome to the World of Amber, 1996-2008.
3. Baltic Amber - Alternative Medicine. Amber Artisans, 2008-2011.
4. Melody. Love is in the Earth - A Kaleidoscope of Crystals. Earth-Love Publishing House, 1995.
5. Raphaell, Katrina. Crystal Enlightenment: The Transforming Properties of Crystals and Healing Stones. Aurora Press, 1985.