The Colors, Cultural Symbolism, and Functions of Amber

Amber, a treasure of nature, is renowned for its diverse and vibrant hues, with yellow being the most common, yet red, green, and even the extremely rare blue also exist. The formation of these colorful tones is attributed to the complex chemicals contained within the original tree resin, combined with the wondrous geological transformations over eons. Each color serves as a unique language of nature, carrying distinct cultural symbols and meanings.

In the rich history of China, amber is respectfully called “yi” or “yiyu,” and legends speak of it as the soul of tigers, hence its alternative name “hupo.” Since ancient times, amber has been esteemed as a precious treasure due to its origin from pine resin, and pine trees symbolize longevity and resilience in Chinese culture. When gently rubbed, amber releases a captivating pine-like aroma that not only soothes the senses but is also believed to have calming and stabilizing effects, making it a favored material for crafting religious artifacts.

Chinese people have long cherished the scent of pine, and amber, along with dragon’s saliva fragrance, is classified as a precious perfume. Ancient concubines cleverly utilized amber’s fragrant characteristic to attract the emperor’s attention. According to Guo Xian’s “Dongming Ji” (Records of Mystic Secrets) from the Han Dynasty, a palace maiden named Lijuan wore amber hidden in her skirt, creating the illusion that her bones emitted mysterious sounds, adding an aura of mystery and charm. The “Xi Jing Za Ji” (Western Capital Miscellaneous Records) from the Tang Dynasty describes how Empress Zhao Feiyan of Emperor Cheng of Han used a pillow stuffed with amber to enjoy its fragrance.

Beyond China, amber holds significant roles in other cultures. In Europe, amber is seen as the embodiment of the sun, symbolizing life and vitality, bringing hope and light to people. In the Baltic Sea region, amber is revered as a sacred gemstone used to create talismans and religious artifacts, believed to protect wearers from evil and illness.

Regarding amber’s benefits, it is widely believed to have soothing and calming effects, aiding in the relief of anxiety, stress, and tension. Furthermore, amber is thought to enhance energy levels, increase vitality and endurance, and rejuvenate individuals. Folk remedies also utilize amber to treat various bodily discomforts such as headaches, asthma, and arthritis, although these effects have yet to be widely supported by scientific research. However, these traditional beliefs and folklore undoubtedly add to amber’s mystique and humanistic value.

It’s worth noting that, despite amber’s high regard in traditional cultures, its purported healing properties are mostly based on traditional experience and folklore, lacking extensive scientific validation. Therefore, when facing specific health issues, it’s prudent to maintain a rational approach and consult professional doctors or healthcare providers for scientific and reasonable treatment advice.