CONSERVATION
REMEDIES
The best one is, of course, prevention. This requires regular inspection of your pieces.
Some very useful products to always have on hand:
• Packing: neutral tissue paper or acid free cardboard
• Lubrication of keratin materials : Vaseline oil or Neatsfoot oil are excellent for restoring dry tortoiseshell or horn. You can even let the pieces soak overnight. Also good to clean mother of pearl.
• Do not put horn in water in case it softens.
• Vermin prevention: opt for natural products: chips of Aleppo soap, essence of lavender or citronella, natural Cedar wood ... The use of the freezer is good for jewel-cases lined with velvet or silk, which provide a cosy nest for clothes moths and their eggs. Exposure to intense cold for 48 hours will give them no chance of survival.
• Humidity: Museum equipment is expensive. If the air is dry, provide a small water container nearby.
