Illegal amber mining thrives in Ukraine as conflict halts scrutiny

Rivne, Ukraine – Illegal amber mining has blighted the landscape in Rivne, northwest Ukraine, leaving just tree stumps, small bushes and swampy puddles deep in the coniferous forest. Mafia-style groups flushed out chunks of the golden fossilized resin for years, paying little regard to the environment and fueling a black-market industry that devastated thousands of hectares. Amber is used to make jewelry and other products, which are hugely sought after in China.