[NHCOLL-L:4174] cleaning nicotine-staining off mineral specimens?

[Vicen Carrio]

Dear all,

I have received this enquiry.
Any suggestion? 
There are some 5 to 600 specimens.

Thanks,

Vicen

Ms Vicen Carrió
Geological Conservator/ Preparator
 
National Museums Scotland
National Museums Collection Centre
242 West Granton Road
Edinburgh EH5 1JA
Phone  +44 (0) 131 247 4254
Fax +44 (0) 131 2474322
v.carrio at nms.ac.uk
http://www.nms.ac.uk
 
Note:  My working days are Monday to Thursday
======================================
Hi Vicen,

Here's a summary of my enquiry...

We've just been given a rather nice mineral collection. Previously, the
specimens had spent several decades on open display shelving, in a
cigarette-smoke rich atmosphere. Many of the specimens have a dull
yellowish nicotine/smoke/dust tinge, which impairs the natural
colour/lustre, and reduces their visual appeal.

Is there a particular recommended way of removing this, and restoring
the original lustre of the specimens? Obviously there is a wide range of
minerals species with different chemical properties, so particular
treatments may not be appropriate for everything. However, any
suggestions gratefully recieved, especially if they can be performed
safely in an open sink or similar. If necessary, fume-cupboard
approaches might also be feasible though.

Thanks 

John
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”The world's greatest dressmaker.” Jean Muir: A Fashion Icon.
http://www.nms.ac.uk/jeanmuir

National Museums Scotland, Scottish Charity, No. SC 011130

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