Amber with Ant Inclusion. Burmite. Cretaceous. Hukawng Valley, Myitkyina District, Kachin State, Myanmar. 1.16...

Description

Amber with Ant Inclusion
Burmite
Cretaceous
Hukawng Valley, Myitkyina District, Kachin State, Myanmar
1.16 x 0.76 x 0.30 inches (2.95 x 1.94 x 0.75 cm)

This beautiful, rounded Burmite Amber from Myanmar exhibits a lovely golden hue and permanently houses a singular large Gerontoformica ant. This is an extinct genus that demonstrates the early evolution of the ants. During the Cretaceous, the ants were just beginning to diversify, following a variety of evolutionary lines, most of which did not survive to the present. These "primitive" ants preserve combinations of features that are found in the wasp ancestors of ants, most of which are not found in modern ants, and this particular example has been fantastically preserved in this drop of fossilized tree resin that, under magnification, really shines. This golden drop weighs 2.24 grams and is a must-have for any Amber collector.

*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.