Amber is the fossilized resin produced by ancient plants that existed millions of years ago -- it is a natural product and not a mineral. Amber has been prized for its mystery and beauty by cultures dating from the Paleolithic to the present. The story of the natural history of amber spans time, the continents, and many peoples and societies. It also ranges from religion and art to commerce and the cutting edge of contemporary science, presenting an unusually rich and deep subject.

I've been able to take and compile many photographs and photomicrographs of amber and its inclusions over the years, thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of many -- scientists, museum curators, and private collectors. Together with maps and art/cultural information, it was my hope to put together a comprehensive interactive CD-ROM on the natural history of amber. I succeeded, but never found a commercial outlet to produce and publish the final product. However, by navigating through the selections below, you can sample a variety of amber-related photographs and informational resources that should give you a glimpse into the fascinating realm of amber and its mysteries.