>        I have an intertersting conservatioing conservation problem.
>        I have recently encountered a tortoise-shell comb that is
>deteriorating from the edge of the handle, pndle, progressively over
>thpast five years. The material is craking in a geometric pattern and
>crumbling int a powder. The damage is progressing from one corner along
>the edge of the handle of the comb.
>        The comb has been kept in a plastic zip-lock bag in a drawer
>during the period of deterioration, in a private home that has been at
>room temperature but in uncontrolled relative humidity.
>        I would appreciate any suggestions on how to stabilize this piece
>and at least stop further deterioration.
>        Thanks!
>        Michael A Lewis
>        University of Alaska Museum


Are you certain it's tortoise? From your description, it sounds more like
the deterioration of celluloid that tortoise. There was some
extraordinarily good imitation tortoise done in celluloid.

I've done a lot of conservation work on tortoise (used to be a conservator
at the MMA). I'll be happy to provide you with some tips on identifying the
material, if you'd like - also some info on maintaining tortoise.

R.

--



Warbaby
The WebSite. The Domain. The Empire.
http://www.warbaby.com

The MonkeyPool
WebSite Content Development
http://www.monkeypool.com


        Once you get the nose on, the rest is just makeup.