Preparation of small-sized 3D amber samples: state of the technique

Abstract

Preparation of a piece of amber is an inevitable step for any paleontologist working with this precious medium. To see the life-like detail of a biological inclusion, the fossil resin itself has to be trimmed to the minimum, then surfaces polished flat for viewing of the fossil, preferably from all sides. This concerns inclusions of any size, but the smallest—mites, collembolans, scale insects and others—are the most challenging to the abilities of the human hand. Making a millimeter-large cube of a brittle material containing an unscathed tiny fossil was feasible for only a few artists of amber preparation some ten years ago. Now, with tools and techniques having evolved since, the task is feasible for any attentive preparator after a few days of training. This paper is an account of our progress.