Copal is a fossilized organic resin. This amorphous yellow to brownish material is often confused with amber, but amber is much older than copal. A test using acetone can separate amber and copal - copal will react immediately while amber will take longer to be affected.

A copal with few termites

Gemological information for Copal
Color	The color of copal varies from pale yellow to orange to a deep brown
Crystal Structure	Amorphous
Refractive Index	ca. 1.54 (-.010)
Durability	Can be melted by a hot torch
Hardness	2
Similar stones	reconstructed amber
Treatments	Oiling, heat treatments, reconstruction (same as amber)
Country of origin	Africa, New Zealand & South America
Copal care
Ultrasonic cleaning	Not safe
Steam cleaning	Not safe
Warm soapy water	Not safe - cool water only - no brushes
Chemical attack	Keep away from chemicals
Light sensitivity	Will darken as it ages
Heat sensitivity	Burns readily