Questions About Faturan, Bakelite and Copal Amber

[keith_kaz]

Does anyone know whether Faturan can be tested with Simichrome as with Bakelite? If so, how can you tell the difference between the two? Lastly, are there any tests I can do to verify Copal (also called African Amber)?

Thanks In Advance!

[jayceerichjr]

Keith,

I have some prayer beads I am researching too.  I found this interesting on Faturan https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2UoMgn70wI (nothing for sale just research!!!!

Carolyn

[jayceerichjr]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6G7ZvqOucs meant to give you this one too.

Carolyn

[keith_kaz]

Thanks for the links, Carolyn. I wish I spoke their language but thank goodness for the ability to translate the comments. If I run into something useful I'll definitely pass it along.

[southernmermaid8]

U.V. and Floatation tests are incanclusive with Copal .

Unfortunately the tests I know for Copal might damage the piece , look for an inconspicuous spot . Take a cotton swab , dip in Alcohol or Acetone , swipe a spot of the Copal . Wait 10 seconds , Copal will become mildly tacky . Copal being much younger is a lot softer than Amber . Take your Thumbnail and scratch a hidden spot , Copal will actually show this scratch , where as Amber will not .

Sorry I have no clue about Faturan , can not help you there .

[pierre-le-rosko]

 Ditto Carolyn-.We don't speak this language-DON'T UNDERSTAND.

[kh-shakhib]

Hi everyone,

Due to the age of this thread, it has been closed to further replies. Please feel free to start a new thread if you wish to continue to discuss this topic.

Thank you for understanding.