Zanzibar copal (resin)

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Scope note
A variety of copal resin that is hard and found on the island of Zanzibar and areas of nearby African mainland. It is derived from either semi-fossilized specimens or as exudations on species Hymenaea verrucosa. The most valued pieces are fossilized specimens found embedded in the earth over a wide belt of East Africa on the western coast of Zanzibar, on tracts where not a tree is now visible. Zanzibar copal is a very hard, smooth, and shiny resin that is used to make a dark oil varnish, for fumigation, and in perfumery. Some specimens of Zanzibar copal are misrepresented as amber. A variety of copal resin that is hard and found on the island of Zanzibar and areas of nearby African mainland. It is derived from either semi-fossilized specimens or as exudations on species Hymenaea verrucosa. The most valued pieces are fossilized specimens found embedded in the earth over a wide belt of East Africa on the western coast of Zanzibar, on tracts where not a tree is now visible. Zanzibar copal is a very hard, smooth, and shiny resin that is used to make a dark oil varnish, for fumigation, and in perfumery. Some specimens of Zanzibar copal are misrepresented as amber.
Zanzibar copal
Accepted term: 06-May-2024