The History of Oltu Stone (Black Amber)

Oltu stone, also known as black amber, is a fossilized resin that is mined in the Oltu district of Erzurum, Turkey. It has been prized for its beauty and believed to have medicinal and healing properties for centuries. Here is a brief history of Oltu stone:

1. Prehistoric times: Oltu stone is believed to be millions of years old, with some estimates suggesting it dates back to the Cretaceous period (around 145-66 million years ago). It is formed from the resin of ancient trees, which became fossilized over time.
2. Ancient civilizations: Oltu stone was used by ancient civilizations such as the Hittites and the Ottoman Empire. It was believed to have medicinal properties and was used to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions, respiratory problems, and digestive issues. It was also used in beauty treatments, such as facial masks, to improve the appearance of the skin.
3. Modern times: Oltu stone is still widely used today, both in traditional medicine and as a decorative material. It is commonly used in the production of jewelry and other decorative items, and is prized for its beauty and durability.

Overall, Oltu stone has a long history of use and is still widely used today. It is believed to have medicinal and healing properties, as well as beauty benefits, and is a durable and prized material for use in jewelry and decorative items.

The process of mining Oltu stone involves digging deep into the ground to reach deposits of the fossilized resin. Once the Oltu stone has been mined, it is cleaned and processed to remove any impurities.

After it has been mined and cleaned, Oltu stone can be shaped and cut into various shapes and sizes for use in jewelry and decorative items. It can also be polished to bring out its natural shine and luster. Some Oltu stone is left in its natural state, while others may be dyed to create different colors.

In addition to being used in jewelry and decorative items, Oltu stone is also used in traditional medicine. It is ground into a fine powder and used as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, including skin conditions, respiratory problems, and digestive issues. It is also used in beauty treatments, such as facial masks, to improve the appearance of the skin.

Overall, the process of mining and processing Oltu stone involves extracting the fossilized resin from the ground, cleaning and refining it, and shaping and cutting it into various forms for use in jewelry and decorative items, as well as in traditional medicine.