The question of whether Baltic amber is ethical to buy often comes up as if it were something uniquely problematic. But if we zoom out, the issue becomes much broader: almost every product on the market is a result of consumption.
We regularly use materials that are extracted from the earth—plastics derived from petroleum, metals, minerals, and countless other natural resources. Amber is not an exception; it is simply a natural material formed over millions of years.
Throughout history, trade and exchange have always existed. Amber itself was once a key part of ancient trade routes, connecting different regions and cultures.
So perhaps the real question is not about the material itself. What matters more is how it is sourced and what it represents today. For many people, amber is not just a decorative object—it is a way to create, to work, and to earn a living, just like any other craft or industry.
In the end, consumption is unavoidable. The more meaningful question is whether it is conscious.