amber definition

Amber is a type of fossil resin taken from the land; the coast of the Baltic Sea in East Prussia contains many deposits of amber.  It is often used in ornaments and bead-making.  Because amber is such a hardy resin, it is highly desirable as a varnish resin despite the fact it is among the least soluble.  Amber varnishes actually are made up of only a small amount of amber, because even when combined with various resins and oils not much amber can be placed in solutuions at hot temperatures.