Jet - Black Amber - photos, jewelry, who suits it

Black semi-precious stones have always been objects of increased attention from people, because the black color is associated with something magical and mystical. An example of such a stone is jet, or black amber, which has a luxurious silky shine.

In fact, jet and amber have different compositions - amber is the fossilized resin of pine trees, and jet is considered a viscous type of fossil coal. What other properties does this stone have?

Description of physical and chemical properties

This stone also has other names - black amber, black jasper. The gem can also be called gisher. In fact, it is not a mineral. This is an organic rock that was obtained from layers of fossils pressed together.

Experts say that it is based on an ancient coniferous tree called Araucaria. When it entered the water, it became saturated with it and sank to the bottom. As a result, the wood was enveloped in clay and carbonization took place for many thousands of years. From these remains black jet was obtained.

The main properties of this stone include the following:

• form of isolation - thin layers, lenses, pieces;
• hardness parameters – 3-3.5;
• opaque structure;
• black or brown-black color.

80% of jet consists of carbon. What does a gem look like? The best examples have a rich black tint. There are also other shades - blue-black or brown-brown. In addition, there are homogeneous specimens with a shiny mother-of-pearl surface.

Although the stone seems loose and light, it changes structure when heated from 120 degrees. This means that it is highly durable. At the same time, jet is considered malleable and scratches easily.

High viscosity does not help to split the stone without effort. Moreover, the gem does not have a crystal lattice. Sharp temperature fluctuations are contraindicated, as is high humidity. The inside of the stone is considered homogeneous, and shells are visible on the chips.

Jet

I think everyone knows what amber is. But, nevertheless, sometimes there are disputes about WHAT exactly should be called real amber and what not. Fortunately, the scientific world, at the suggestion of authoritative biochemists, has now come to a clear conclusion: any fossilized resin of plant origin older than one million years should be called amber.

*by the way: amber got its name from the Turkic phrase “yanip tora” (as if burning); over time, the pronunciation in Russia changed to the ancient Slavic “entar”; in Belarus amber is called “burshtyn”

In addition to disagreements about what amber is, there are disputes about its color. Let's say that many people know that the black variety of amber is considered jet. But jet is a type of coal, which (that is, coal) is formed from the decomposition products of organic remains of trees and plants that have undergone changes under conditions of high pressure of the surrounding rocks of the earth’s crust and relatively high temperatures. And most importantly: jet becomes jet, and not just coal, if in ancient times the wood fell to the bottom of reservoirs. Externally, jet looks like resin and burns with a bright, smoky flame, with a specific smell of petroleum products (bitumen). Jet is petrified wood, not tree resin!

But there is really black amber and it is called stantienite:

This amber is completely opaque and very rare. It has been known for a long time - there is a version that 2500 years ago, the ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician Thales of Miletus discovered this unique property in black amber: when rubbed, the stone attracted various light objects.

They say that the mysterious and gloomy black amber attracted the special attention of sorcerers and sorcerers, but this is not entirely true: rulers were also interested in it. They say that Nero preferred black amber...

True, as already mentioned, stantienite is quite rare. And this is not surprising - its formation requires certain conditions: drops of resin needed to get into an environment saturated with iron compounds - they are what give amber its black color. And stantienite is also very fragile. Therefore, modern methods of amber mining are detrimental to stantienite: hydraulic monitors that erode rock layers containing amber destroy rare, fragile stantienites.

There are very few deposits of black amber. Most often, finds of large pieces of stantienite occur in Germany (Bitterfeld) and on Sakhalin (at the mouth of the Yantarnaya River).

*by the way: in fact, there are almost 250 different types of amber: first of all, this is succinite - the most common amber in jewelry (especially the “batter” variety - transparent, beautiful yellow tone, possibly with defects or foreign inclusions), it is the most famous and characteristic of all types of fossil resins, called amber in the narrow sense of the word (and makes up 98% of all Baltic amber, and the Baltic is where the main deposits of amber are concentrated, approximately 80% of the world's reserves!):

Another fairly common amber is the “bastard” variety: such amber is only half transparent and looks like candied honey:

Gedanite is a waxy-yellow amber (otherwise it is also called swamp or rotten amber - this is due to its nondescript dirty yellow or earthy color. Gedanite is more fragile than succinite, therefore it breaks more easily when drilling and carving - because of this it the share does not exceed 2% of all mined amber. But despite its fragility and unpresentability, after high-quality processing, swamp amber is practically indistinguishable from succinite):

Even less transparent is the so-called smoky amber or “flom”: amber of this variety is more valuable because it looks very interesting due to the large amount of air suspension. A variety of this type is landscape amber, completely opaque and covered with beautiful soft stains. In the jewelry craft, this variety is one of the most sought-after gems - and all because of its magnificence:

The most valuable of all types is considered to be ivory-colored “knoken” amber (otherwise it is called “bone amber”):

The remaining varieties of Baltic amber are inexpressive and have no value among jewelers: dark and elastic, soft bockerite, brown glossite contaminated with impurities and greenish soft, “immature” kranzite - all of them are mined in very small quantities and are not particularly interesting as jewelry. Except that sometimes very interesting jewelry is made from greenish crancite:

You probably won’t remember these names, but when you choose a piece of amber jewelry or item, at least you will understand what is valuable and what is not. Look how different (at least in color) amber can be:

Black amber, as a rule, is of interest only to collectors. It is used quite rarely in jewelry because of its fragility. But, for example, Faberge did use small pieces of stantienite to decorate one of his amber eggs, but, alas, just small pieces, fragments:

*kept in the Gdansk Amber Museum (Poland)

Now black amber is sometimes used in the form of inserts to make jewelry for collectors - lovers of rare stones and for people involved in esotericism: after all, many magical and healing properties are attributed to black amber.

*brooch: silver with black amber insert
For example, it is believed that a talisman made of black amber helps a person sharpen his intuition and become bolder. But most importantly: experts believe that rare varieties of amber can greatly enhance the effect of amber of the color we are familiar with.

As for the use of amber for medical purposes, this is its completely official use - modern biochemists have discovered the secret of the healing properties of the stone: succinic acid was isolated, which is widely used in kidney and intestinal preparations by modern medicine as a biostimulant and anti-inflammatory agent.

To improve overall well-being, place amber under the pillow and sleep on it for a week. A massage with a heated stone is good: you first roll it in your hands to warm it up, and then apply it to the problem area (for example, where there are excess fat deposits, or on a sore spot) and move it over this area with rotating movements.

Amber accelerates biochemical processes, therefore, they say that it can be applied to spots left behind by pimples and boils to quickly even out skin color. It is also believed that amber has a beneficial effect on the thyroid gland if worn around the neck...

In general, be vigilant, little people, health to you and all the best, and from minerals too

(c) using materials from the network

Magical properties of jet

Jet or black amber has long been endowed with magical characteristics. The stone was revered by representatives of different faiths. As protection and amulet, the monks used the gem to create rosaries. At the same time, magicians used it for rituals.

The magical properties of the stone are as follows:

1. Protects the house and its inhabitants from evil forces. For a long time, it was customary to store stones in old clothes that were not worn outside. Many people were sure that the stone helped protect against the evil eye and damage.
2. It influences the subconscious of other people and helps to cast love spells. Magicians used jet stone to bewitch another person. To do this, it was enough to hold the pebble in your hands and think about your beloved. After this, the stone was given to the person.
3. Helps you see the future. This magical feature of the crystal was often used by sorcerers who wanted to foresee the future or unravel the truth of existence. They performed rituals or meditations using the crystal, using jet as the main element.
4. Helps predict fate. Runes were often made from black amber. They were used for fortune telling by people who wanted to know their future.
5. Helps people choose a path in life. The ancestors were sure that the owners of this stone became decisive and were lucky in any endeavor. At the same time, difficulties are easily overcome, and dangerous situations pass by.
6. Helps diagnose diseases. Healers lit jet and watched the smoke. This helped them assess health conditions and identify epilepsy, which is considered real magic.
7. The old-timers were sure that the stone must be carried with them at all times. The magical properties inherent in jet helped protect against danger. If a threat approached, the stone acquired a dull color and lost its beautiful shine. Such a gem was beginning to look not very attractive.

Description of the stone

At first glance, the jet stone resembles a small coal. Which is not far from the truth, since this is one of the varieties of coal. It can be black or dark brown with a greasy oil sheen.

Unlike amber (although it has the same name), it is not transparent. Since jet is petrified wood of coniferous plants, growth rings can sometimes be seen on its surface. The stone has low strength, so it can be easily processed and polished, after which it acquires a glass or velvet shine.

It has another unique feature: it gradually changes: it becomes dull, its weight increases, and the ambient temperature decreases. Jet has low thermal conductivity, so when you touch it you feel warm.

Medicinal properties

The healing properties of jet have been known since ancient times. Today they are used by lithotherapists. Black amber helps to cope with pain of a different nature. With its help, it is possible to eliminate headaches, toothaches, and joint pains.

The inherent properties of jet help to obtain the following results:

• eliminate tumor formations;
• cope with kidney diseases;
• eliminate bladder pathologies;
• improve liver and pancreas functions;
• normalize blood pressure - in this case, the gem can be used for both hypotension and hypertension.

To get the desired effect, it is important to use a specific jet product:

• A bracelet will help cope with joint pain;
• to normalize the functioning of internal organs, you should wear a pendant on a chain;
• Water infused with jet will help eliminate tooth pain.

The black gem functions as a sponge. It absorbs all the dirt that accumulates in the body. The mineral filters harmful energy. Therefore, it may deteriorate over time. To avoid such problems, the gem must be constantly cleansed of negative energy. To do this, you should use magical rituals.

Salt is an excellent cleansing option. It has been used since ancient times to remove the negative energy of talismans. A more powerful method is purification by fire. To achieve the desired effect, just pass the jet amulet over the candle. This must be done an odd number of times - 3 or 7. After this, the gem must be rinsed with water.

What does the stone look like and color variations?

Externally, gisher looks like frozen resin or coal.

At first glance, it is difficult to distinguish 2 minerals from each other, but if you look closely or take a photo, you can distinguish the following shades:

• pearl black;
• blue-black;
• jet black;
• dark brown.

The crystal can have a mirror or matte shine. Over time, it is able to change its appearance: become more sparkling or lose its shine.

Jet can change color.

Application in astrology

Many people are interested in who this stone is suitable for according to their zodiac sign. The gem is most suitable for Cancers and Pisces. Insecure people who belong to these signs will be able to become more decisive, cope with hesitations, develop the ability to defend their own opinions and think soberly.

This gem should be used by Capricorns and Scorpios as an amulet to attract good luck. It helps smooth out rough edges and find a common language with other people. At the same time, the crystal helps to avoid stress.

Jet is not always suitable for Leos, Aries and Aquarius. These already strong people can become more self-confident and hot-tempered. This doesn't always work to their advantage.

Who is jet suitable for?

Jet is a stone with a clear “female/male” polarity. It separates the flows of feminine and masculine energy, restoring the attraction of opposite sexes and returning natural aversion to members of the same sex.

The stone symbolizes justice and retribution, so jet can help people who are in dire need of inner strength and the ability to withstand external attacks.

It should be worn by representatives of honest professions that require people to fight for truth and against evil in any form.

Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?

As a rule, it is recommended to choose gems taking into account your personality traits. At the same time, the energy of the talisman should be in harmony with the energy of the talisman. Most often, black amber is recommended for use by the following zodiac signs:

1. Cancer - jet can be just perfect for them. By nature, Cancers are considered not too decisive. At the same time, a talisman made from this gem helps to overcome complexes and believe in yourself.
2. Pisces - representatives of this sign are considered quite dreamy. At the same time, jet helps them return to reality and begin to act.
3. Scorpio – representatives of this sign need support. A black gem will suit fans of a discreet clothing style. It also helps to cope with hostility towards the world.
4. Capricorn - black jasper is also suitable for representatives of this sign. However, they should be careful. The gem brings good luck in risky endeavors. At the same time, it can make a brave person more frivolous.

Note! For Leos, Aries and Sagittarius, jet can be made a temporary talisman. However, astrologers do not recommend wearing products with it every day.

Representatives of other signs should not expect benefits from the gem. In this case, there is a risk of manifestation of not the best qualities of the jet. To prevent imbalance, it is not necessary to use such a talisman, since the compatibility is not very good.

Mistakes when wearing black amber

In order not to look old-fashioned, but at the same time wear jewelry with amber, you should adhere to the following rules:

• avoid wearing sets, give preference to one accessory;
• It is better to give preference to decorations with non-standard shapes;
• the stone goes best with a white shirt or a plain outfit;
• do not choose old-fashioned things if you decide to wear amber jewelry;
• the ideal combination of amber will be with dense fabrics;
• do not use several types of stones at once in your image, otherwise it will look tasteless and old-fashioned;
• when choosing everyday jewelry, give preference to small stones, but if you want to attend an evening event with an amber accessory, then it is better to choose larger bead options.

Despite the fact that amber is considered a “grandmother’s” stone, recently it has become increasingly popular among young people. To look stylish, you just need to choose the right clothes and accessories.

Sincerely, production enterprise "Amberprofi"

Jewelry and products with jet

The amazing properties of jet allow you to make various jewelry from it. Jewelry stores offer many earrings, pendants, and rings with this gem. They are relatively inexpensive. You can buy a small piece with black amber for literally $15. Gold jewelry will cost a little more – about $40.

Various handmade products are no less popular. Decorative knives, dishes, and figurines look beautiful. In industrial conditions, jet is used to make vases, sculptures, and frames.

Jewelry made with the addition of other stones is often found on sale. Rock crystal and amber are usually used as additions. Also, the properties of the mineral are enhanced in combination with zirconium, sapphire, cubic zirconia.

Origin

A stone was discovered on the banks of the Gagae River, as a result of which it received the name jet. However, since it looks like amber, in Ancient Greece it was called that, and in the Caucasus it is called black jasper. He also has another name - gisher, which means “night” in Armenian. According to data, it began to be used as an ornamental gem about 3000 years ago. Archaeologists discovered jewelry and household items. They were found in Germany and England. Queen Elizabeth preferred accessories inlaid with this stone, which suited her strict style. Nowadays, stones are also used to create jewelry, for example, beads and bracelets. Muslims, Buddhists and Christians make rosaries from jet.

How to spot a fake

Since jet is considered a fairly rare mineral, it is often counterfeited. In this case, there is a risk of buying a gem made of painted glass or plastic. To distinguish natural material, you should pay attention to the following features:

• a natural gem becomes electrified when heated;
• it can be easily scratched;
• jet almost always remains warm, which cannot be said about other crystals;
• natural black amber creates a feeling of lightness in the hand.

Raw jet is light and warm. It is these characteristics that make it possible to identify a natural gem, since other stones appear cooler and heavier.

Jet is a fairly rare stone that has pronounced decorative properties. In addition, the gem has magical and healing properties.

Where is it mined?

Black amber is found during coal mining, and only high-quality specimens are collected.
Amber, which is black in color and looks like charcoal, is not mined purposefully. It is found during coal mining, and not all specimens are collected, but only high-quality samples. England is considered the most extensive deposit, but it is also present in other European countries, as well as in the United States of America. In the Russian Federation you can also find black amber. It is mined in Novorossiysk, Siberia and Crimea.

How to choose amber jewelry: what to look for

The greater the saturation of the stone and color scheme, the more interesting it is.

Important! A good product will not be cheap. It should be stylish and interesting.

You need to pay attention to the stone. First, in a store or workshop, look at what shades there are and how the product is made. However, the latter will be your choice and taste.

Production of amber jewelry.

Good craftsmen always try to highlight the stone in their work. A special approach and high-quality processing allow us to emphasize the beauty of amber through the means of shape and frame. The goal is not only the final acquisition of profit, but the creation of a work of art that can surprise the buyer. High-quality, unique jewelry is an art.

How to care for amber

Amber does not like direct sunlight. Therefore, many people store amber jewelry in boxes.

• Do not rub with rough surfaces, as this will cause the stone to lose its shine. It is necessary to avoid mechanical influences, rubbing, wiping at home, attempts to polish, and so on. Only a master can do this.
• Do not use chemicals; they will not add beauty to the stone, but will only worsen it.
• It is necessary to remove products before showering and bathing, avoid contact with perfume, and do not wash in hot water.

All these measures will allow you to preserve the product for a long time in its original form.

How to clean amber beads if they have been lying around for a long time without proper care. How to restore shine?

There is only one recipe - give it to a master for polishing. Do not invent or invent any actions. Only a master knows how to restore the shine to amber.

Can amber beads crack on top?

They cannot unless mechanical influence is exerted on them. Amber is a very delicate stone and must be handled with care. Amber beads should be stored separately from other jewelry.

You won’t be able to clean them from clouding at home - it’s impossible. Some people confuse natural aging with loss of polish. Polishing is just an action on the top or outside of the product. The entire stone ages. This is a natural and normal process.

Curious cases in Amber production

At the end of the 50s, the Amber Factory sent pressed amber pendants to a trading base in Odessa. Somehow, by chance, amber pendants with inclusions ended up in the batch. These pendants were returned to the plant with the comments “The products are contaminated, do not meet the standards, such products cannot go on sale.”

Amber with inclusions (mosquitoes, midges, moths).

Today, inclusions can be very expensive; some examples on the market fetch from several hundred to several thousand dollars.