Unearthing History: A Complete Guide to Cleaning and Preserving Metal Detecting Finds
Cleaning and Preserving Finds: A Guide for Metal Detectorists
Metal detecting is an exciting hobby that allows you to unearth treasures from the past. Once you’ve made a find, it’s important to properly clean and preserve your discoveries to maintain their historical value and integrity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of cleaning and preserving finds from start to finish.
1. Identifying Your Find:
Before cleaning any item, it’s crucial to identify what it is made of. Different materials require different cleaning methods. Common metal types include iron, copper, silver, gold, and bronze. Consult reference books or seek expert advice if needed.
2. Assessing Condition:
Determine the condition of your find before attempting any cleaning techniques. Delicate or corroded items may require professional conservation rather than DIY methods.
3. Dry Cleaning:
Start by gently removing loose dirt or debris using a soft brush or toothbrush. Avoid scrubbing too vigorously as this can cause damage.
4. Wet Cleaning:
For non-fragile finds like coins or buttons, mild soapy water can be used with a soft cloth or sponge for gentle rubbing in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly afterward with clean water to remove all soap residues.
5. Removing Rust:
To remove rust from ferrous metals such as iron artifacts, soak them in a solution of one part white vinegar and four parts water for several hours or overnight depending on severity. Scrub lightly with a toothbrush before rinsing thoroughly and drying immediately.
6. Tackling Corrosion:
If corrosion has affected your find’s surface patina (e.g., on bronze), consult an expert conservator who can use specialized techniques without damaging its historical value further.
7.Protecting Fragile Items:
Delicate items like pottery shards should only be rinsed in clean water without any chemicals involved since they are prone to breakage even when handled gently.
8.Drying:
After cleaning, ensure your finds are completely dry to prevent further deterioration. Use a soft cloth or air-dry them naturally in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
9. Preserving and Displaying:
Consider using protective coatings like Renaissance Wax to safeguard metal finds against future corrosion. For displaying, acid-free archival storage materials such as coin flips or display cases can help protect your items while showcasing their beauty.
10. Documenting Your Finds:
Don’t forget to document your discoveries by taking clear photographs and recording important details like date, location, and any associated artifacts found nearby. This information will be valuable for historical research purposes.
Remember, the goal is always to preserve the historical value of your finds rather than altering or damaging them through improper cleaning methods. When in doubt, seek professional advice from conservators who specialize in archaeological artifacts.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to effectively clean and preserve your metal detecting finds for years to come while respecting their historical significance. Happy hunting!