Amber is one of nature's true wonders, resulting from tree resin and residual life forms buried underground for over 50 million years. Today, it is one of the world's most beautiful semi-precious stones and, as with many other semi-precious stones, there are rules for caring for amber that need to be followed. This is to make sure the stone does not suffer from degradation and is kept in perfect shape.

People around the globe have become extremely fond of amber jewelry because of its delicacy, elegance, mystery, warmth and calming effects. And because this stone is extremely delicate, it must be treated with special care, respect and attention so it will always remain in a perfect state and condition, along with its mysteries and beauty. Here are 10 rules for caring for amber that should be followed in order to preserve amber stones and amber jewelry.

1. Protection from sunlight. It is important to know that direct sunlight can damage amber. Over-exposure to sun radiation can alter any kind of gem. Amber is in a continuous metamorphosis, so keeping it away from too much sunlight is the first step in preventing degradation.

2. Not too hot, not too cold. In short, keep amber jewelry away from sources of extreme cold or extreme heat which may damage the amber stone's quality and delicacy.

3. Keep amber jewelry away from body perfume. It is important to protect amber stones from body perfume and hairspray. If you use any of these substances apply them first on your skin or hair and after that put on the jewelry.

4. Avoid exposure to detergents. It is better not to wear amber jewelry when washing dishes or doing the laundry. A continuous exposure of amber to detergents and cleaning substances can damage the stone's surface and composition.

5. Avoid cooking and cleaning while wearing amber. Not only can detergents and cleaning substances harm your amber jewelry, but also cooking or other household activities. Amber is a delicate stone, so it is highly recommended that you protect it as much as you can.

These five rules for caring for amber will help you preserve the quality and delicacy of amber and amber jewelry. Following just these five will surely improve the preservation of the gem and prevent degradation. For full protection of amber stones, here are five additional rules for caring for amber:

6. Do not place amber jewelry along with other materials. Amber is best kept in separate jewelry boxes. It is recommended that you keep it away from other jewelry and gems or other materials.

7. Permanent cleaning. Amber jewelry should be cleaned after each use. So every time you wear it, make sure to clean it with warm water and dry it with a soft material.

8. Keep amber away from cleaners such as ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Not all jewelry cleaners are suitable for cleaning amber. Amber jewelry is extremely delicate and needs special care.

9. Clean amber like you would clean your skin. Imagine that amber jewelry is as delicate as your skin, and clean it using a mild solution of warm, soapy water. Of course, not too warm, nor too cold. And dry it with a flannel cloth.

10. Polish your amber jewelry from time to time. Just like any other gem, amber needs to be polished once in a while. For a safe polishing, use natural oils such as olive oil and a soft cloth. It will make it look shiny and stay healthy.

Any owner of amber jewelry and amber stones should take into consideration for preventing gem deterioration.