Connie, you need to get your antler artifact into the hands of a
qualified conservator immediately. If it is a wet-site artifact keep it
wet by wrapping it with undyed and unbleached non-acidic cloth (polyester
is inert) and keep it hydraded until it can go into treatment. Also store
it in a lidded container made of polyehteylene with bubble-pack padding
and monitor it for any sign of pests. An excellent source book on the
field preservation of artifacts is, "A Conservation Field Guide For
Archaeologists" by Catherine Sease (UCLA research series in archaeology
#4). You can contact the American Institute for Conservation of Artistic
and Historic Works for a conservation referral list.
 
Dave
 
=:|\Pinnacle Online                    - Open and dynamic Internet services:=
=:|o\.    |  |      |  ______                                              :=
=:|_/||\ ||\ |   |\.| __  |       Voice: 804/498.3889  email: [log in to unmask]:=
=:|  || \|| \| o | \| \_ .|        Data: 804/498.9762  login: guest or new :=
 
On Mon, 25 Jul 1994, Connie E. Fairchild wrote:
 
> Advice is requested regarding antler (and some bone tools) found at a
> significant dig.  We would like to know how to handle and preserve
> the specimens so that they may be preserved and yet used for further
> study in the future.  They may be used for casting, so adivice on
> chemicals and treatment should consider the need to retain intricate
> details.
>
> This site is river bottoms and the very wet upper levels makes the
> antler appear sound upon first impression.  Any method tried
> regarding removal has caused cracks and damage, not wanting this -- I
> have volunteered to pass along any information or suggestions to the
> Archaeologists at the dig.
>
> I have cross-posted to the Conservation List because the info is
> needed asap.
>
> Thanks.  Connie Fairchild    [log in to unmask]
>