Amber Listserv / Fwd: copal

[Andy Ng]

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Andy Ng <andy.ng.aik.hoe at gmail.com>
Date: Jul 12, 2006 8:53 PM
Subject: Re: Amber Listserv / copal
To: glen <gosborne at shaw.ca>

How does it burn? Well Glen, acetone-chips from the outer layer burns
steadily while producing a black smoke. Some chips from the internal portion
do produce black smoke, but bubble and spit when aflame, and the dead center
chips smoke white and sputter out, as can be expected of copal.

As for us being on the same wavelength, mabye...and then again mabye not.
While it'd be a very interesting project to compile tests and test results
for copal, it might not lead anywhere. Some time back, I did debunk the
popular belief that UV light is a good test for amber. I'm sure others have
done the same.

Here's the crux of the matter, Glen: Mother Nature not only abhors a vacuum;
she also has no set rules. Just when man thinks he's seen it all and can
list it all down pat and neatly, she'll spring a surprise on us.

I've been stomping round for over 20 years in one of Nature's masterpieces:
the jungles of Borneo. Biodiversity here is unsurpassed, and I've seen many
wierd forms of life which have never had a Latin name assigned to them. I
learned long ago to only expect the unexpected from Mother Nature.

So, if you see a piece of fossilized tree resin that sings to your heart, be
happy for what it is. Marvel at its sinuous flow patterns. Let your eyes
dance in its colors. Wonder at the inclusions it contains. Call it copal or
amber or even Fred if you wish...just enjoy your resin.

Andy


On 7/12/06, glen <gosborne at shaw.ca> wrote:

>  just checking andy, I like to know we are on the same wave length. this
> brings up an observation from the listserve from last year. if I remember
> correctly someone said that the piece they had dissloved with acetone but
> burned steadily with black smoke. I suggest that we compile a list of
> observations regarding anything unusual testing for copal. it seems to be a
> gray area.how does your piece burn on the outside and the inside? glen
>
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