The physicochemical characteristics and conservation of fossil resins (amber) (original) (raw)

Abstract

Fossil resins recovered from deposits around the world are each chemically and physically distinct, reflecting their disparate botanical origins. The older Mesozoic resins are invariably produced by conifers (Gymnospermae), while many of the Cenozoic resins derive primarily from two distinct families of flowering plants (Angiospermae: Dipterocarpaceae and Leguminosae). Amber is a natural polymer, and it becomes harder (often also more friable) over millions of years (Nascimbene et al, 2010). It beautifully preserves fossil organisms (arthropods, botanicals, even occasional vertebrates) in subcellular detail, making these fossils of exceptional scientific value, since they can be meticulously compared to living species. When removed from anoxic sediments, however, all ambers, regardless of age or botanical affinity, react to exposure from light, heat and fluctuating humidity by darkening, crazing, and eventually cracking or disintegrating (Bisulca et al, 2012). Such deterioration thr...

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