Amber, with its golden translucence, captures the imagination like few other gemstones. Originating from fossilized resin, it holds ancient worlds and lore within its glowing depths.
Far from being just a pretty artifact, amber has been steeped in superstition and folk magic for centuries, revered for its mystical properties and healing abilities.
A Tear from Legend
According to Greek mythology, amber was born from the sorrow of the sisters of Meleager, a fallen Greek hero. As they wept for their lost brother, their tears turned into these golden droplets of resin, forever capturing their anguish and love.
The Egyptian Connection
The protective power of amber extends even beyond this life. Ancient Egyptians often included amber amulets within their mummies’ tombs, ensuring their loved ones were safeguarded in the afterlife.
Mystic Qualities
According to a newspaper article published in 1915:
“The people of the East value it as a stuff of proper potency for amulets, and amber charms against death, disease, and the devil are made in practical Prussian Samland for the eastern markets. Thales of Miletus, an ancient Greek philosopher, first of the physicists, established the mystic powers of amber, and incidentally dabbled in electricity when he found that it would attract things after a little rubbing. From history’s dawn to the present day many people have had faith in amber’s curative properties.” [Source: The circle banner.(Circle, Mont.), 22 Jan. 1915.]
More Than Just a Fashion Statement
Amber has long been worn as a protective charm, believed to shield its wearer from dark forces and nightmares. During medieval times, it was even recommended as a preventative measure against the plague.
However, it’s not just about fending off misfortune; amber has its sensual side too. When worn by a woman, it’s said to make her more irresistibly fragrant.
The Luck and Wisdom of Amber
Need a bit of good fortune? An amber stone in your pocket or purse could be your new lucky charm. Struggling with a difficult decision? Holding an amber stone over your heart is said to facilitate the decision-making process, clearing your mind and easing your heart.
The Magic of Fertility
For those struggling with fertility, amber has a special significance. Women might keep a piece of amber in a pocket to promote conception. For an extra boost, amber is sometimes carved into shapes like rabbits, frogs, and fish—a trio believed to increase fertility even more.
A Harmonizer of Energy
Wearing or carrying amber is thought to convert negative energy into positive.
Called Elektron by the Greeks
From 1901, we learn:
“The Greeks called it [amber] elektron, and they made ornaments of it three thousand years ago. Its curious property of attracting and repelling light objects, when gently rubbed, has stereotyped the name into that great force, electricity, which seems to be revolutionizing the world.” [Source: The Conservative. (Nebraska City, Neb.), 22 Aug. 1901.]
