Unearthing Treasures: Tips for Cleaning and Preserving Your Metal Detecting Finds
As metal detector enthusiasts, we all know the thrill of finding a hidden treasure buried beneath the ground. However, once the excitement settles down, it’s important to take proper care of these finds to ensure they last for generations to come.
Cleaning and preserving your finds is crucial in maintaining their value and historical significance. In this post, we’ll go over some tips and tricks on how to properly clean and preserve your metal detecting treasures.
1. Know Your Metal
Before you begin cleaning any metal detecting find, it’s essential that you understand what type of metal it is made of. Different metals require different cleaning methods because of their unique properties.
For instance, copper-based alloys like bronze or brass can be cleaned using water and soap without damaging their surface. On the other hand, iron-based metals like steel require more specialized attention as they are prone to rusting.
2. Cleaning Techniques
Once you’ve identified the type of metal you’re dealing with, it’s time to start cleaning! Here are a few techniques you can use:
a) Mechanical Cleaning: This method involves removing dirt or debris from your item by gently brushing or rubbing them with a soft-bristled brush or cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials like wire brushes as they may scratch delicate surfaces.
b) Chemical Cleaning: If mechanical cleaning doesn’t do the trick, chemical cleaners can be used under careful supervision. Always test a small area first before applying chemicals onto larger areas as some metals may react negatively with certain solutions.
c) Electrolysis: Electrolysis is an advanced technique used for heavily corroded items such as coins or jewelry that have been exposed to saltwater environments for extended periods of time. It involves passing an electric current through water containing baking soda which breaks down rust on the object’s surface without damaging its integrity.
3. Preserving Your Finds
Preservation is about preventing future damage by storing your finds in optimal conditions away from humidity and moisture. Here are some tips on how to preserve your finds:
a) Dry Your Items: After cleaning, it’s important to ensure that your item is thoroughly dry before storing it. Use a soft cotton cloth or hairdryer set on low heat to gently dry the object.
b) Storage Containers: Store your items in acid-free containers and use cotton gloves when handling them. Avoid storing metal objects with other materials like rubber or plastic as they may react chemically and cause damage.
c) Displaying Your Finds: If you’re planning on displaying your finds, make sure they are kept out of direct sunlight and away from sources of heat. UV light can cause metals to tarnish over time, so it’s best to avoid prolonged exposure.
4. When In Doubt, Seek Professional Help
If you’re unsure about how to clean or preserve an item, seek help from professionals who specialize in metal detecting artifact conservation. They have the expertise and tools needed to properly handle rare or delicate artifacts without causing any further damage.
5. Conclusion
Cleaning and preserving metal detecting finds is a crucial step in ensuring their longevity for future generations to enjoy. By understanding the properties of different metals, using proper techniques for cleaning, and taking care when storing them away from environmental factors like humidity and sunlight- you’ll be able to keep these treasures safe for years to come!