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How to Clearly See the Inclusions in Amber

An amber piece begins its life as tree sap that becomes hardened with time and pressure. Before it hardens, plant and animal life can become stuck in the amber and become a part of the piece as it hardens. These animals and debris are called "inclusions" and greatly increase the value of an amber piece. With the right equipment and technique, you can clearly see these inclusions in amber, to judge their quality and observe and appreciate them.

Things You'll Need

Stereo microscope
Amber piece

Instructions

- 1
  Adjust the focus knob of a stereo microscope to its lowest magnification.
- 2
  Plug the stereo microscope's power cord into a power outlet and turn it on, if the microscope has external power. A powered stereo microscope with built-in illumination can help significantly with viewing amber inclusions.
- 3
  Place an amber piece on the viewing area or "stage" of the stereo microscope beneath the lens.
- 4
  Look through the stereo lenses of the microscope with one eye over each lens.
- 5
  Observe the inclusions in the amber and adjust the focus knob to increase magnification. Avoid making contact between the lens and the amber.
- 6
  Adjust the focus knob to its lowest magnification.
- 7
  Pick up the amber piece and carefully turn it in front of the lens as you observe the inclusions. Hold the piece so that the microscope's light can shine through the piece into the lens, lighting the inclusions from behind.

Fossil Collecting