In a remarkable turn of events in a small Romanian village, an elderly woman unknowingly held a hidden treasure for decades. What she used as a mere doorstop turned out to be a massive 3.5-kilogram (7.7 lb) amber nugget, now valued at approximately €1 million (about Rs 9 crore).
The amber, one of the largest ever found, was originally discovered in a local stream. Its true worth came to light when Daniel Costache, the director of the Provincial Museum of Buzau, examined it. The amber was then sent to the Museum of History in Krakow, Poland, where experts confirmed that it dates back between 38.5 and 70 million years.
Unfortunately, the woman who originally discovered the gem passed away in 1991. After her death, a relative kept the stone and eventually realised its true value. The relative decided to sell it to the Romanian government, where further expert analysis confirmed its extraordinary worth. Costache noted, “Its discovery represents great significance both at a scientific level and at a museum level.”
The amber nugget’s discovery holds considerable scientific and historical value. It is considered one of the most significant finds due to its size and age. Daniel Costache emphasized its importance, stating that it adds tremendous value to both scientific research and museum collections.
During a previous robbery at the elderly woman’s home, thieves overlooked the true treasure, stealing only a few pieces of inexpensive gold jewellery. This oversight has added an ironic twist to the story of the amber nugget’s discovery.
Romania is renowned for its rich amber deposits, particularly in Buzau County. Geologist Oscar Helm has referred to these deposits as “rumanit” or “Buzau amber.” The area is home to a nature reserve where valuable amber has been found, although the old Stramba amber mine, once a significant source, was shut down due to declining profitability.
The Colți Museum Collection in Romania showcases an impressive array of amber pieces. According to the World Record Academy, the collection includes 200 pieces of processed and raw amber in 162 shades, ranging from yellow to black. Some pieces even contain tiny fossils, such as insects, crustaceans, and bird feathers, encapsulated within the amber.
This discovery not only highlights Romania’s rich natural heritage but also underscores the fascinating interplay between history and the natural world.