2026-07-10

Registration is now open for the one-day "Intensive Amber Course – From Theory to Practice."

Participants will learn the basics of Baltic amber's geology and distribution, and discover why Baltic amber has properties that have fascinated the ancients. They will then be able to compare natural, modified, and reconstituted amber, as well as learn about other fossil resins from different regions of the world. During the course, we will demonstrate how to distinguish these materials and how to recognize their imitations. The practical portion will utilize the International Amber Association's educational collection of fossil resins and imitations. We will explain the classification principles used by the IAA and present the work of the IAA Amber Laboratory.

- The course is led by experts with specialized education and many years of experience working with amber and other fossil resins: Dr. Regina Kramarska and Prof. Ewa Wagner-Wysiecka.

- The course is intended for everyone interested in amber—both professionally and personally. We invite guides, those involved in the amber trade and jewelry, collectors, enthusiasts, Tricity residents, and our guests who, during their stay on the Baltic Sea, want to discover the secrets of amber and learn to distinguish natural amber from modified amber, imitations, and other fossil resins.

- Participants will receive a certificate of completion.

Course Program:

9:30–9:40 AM | Course Opening

Welcome of participants, presentation of the program and course objectives.

9:40–10:25 AM | Where did Baltic amber come from?

The origins of Baltic amber, the "amber forest," the formation of resin and its transformations over geological time.

10:25–10:35 AM | Short break

10:35–11:20 AM | Where does amber occur and how does it reach humans?

Baltic Amber Deposits.

11:20–11:35 | Coffee Break

11:35–12:20 | Baltic Amber – Succinite and Other Fossil Resins from Around the World

How is Baltic amber different from other fossil resins? Examples of fossil resins from various regions of the world and a work using the IAA educational collection.

12:20–12:35 | Break

12:35–13:30 | Baltic Amber Processing. Amber Gemstones – Classification

A work using the IAA educational collection.

13:30–13:35 | Short Break

13:35–14:20 | Baltic Amber Imitations

Discussion of the most common amber imitations and materials that can be confused with it. Working with the educational collection of fossil resins and IAA imitations.

2:20–2:30 PM | Short break

2:30–3:20 PM | Study visit to the IAA Amber Laboratory

IAA Amber Laboratory: from material receipt to result interpretation. Discussion of selected research methods, including FTIR spectroscopy.

3:20–3:30 PM | Summary, questions, and diplomas

Course summary, time for questions from participants, and presentation of diplomas.

International Amber Association, Heweliusza 31, 80-861, Gdańsk

July 17th and July 23rd (registration for the first date is until July 15, 2026)

Registration: zk@amber.org.pl, 723661518

Fee: PLN 899

Space is limited – we encourage you to register early! Participation will be on a first-come, first-served basis.