According to Katherine Singley, a Georgia objects conservator -- Orvus paste
or Ivory soap can remove light tarnish.  If you have a heavier tarnish
accumulation on the silver, you can use 3M Tarni-Shield (available at
Wal-mart) -- it is less toxic and the least abrasive of commercial polishes
and leaves behind a corrosion inhibitor.  If you want to mix your own,
precipitated chalk is available from several conservation supply stores
online and some art supply stores.  Be very careful when cleaning pieces
with artificial patination as a harsh tarnish remover can damage the
patination.  Be sure to dry everything thoroughly; pieces with hollow
handles and feet can trap water and magnify your corrosion issues.  Store
them in Rubbermaid tubs, wrapped in felt or pacificloth bags with a
Haggerty's silver strip or silica gel pouches inside -- you'll polish less
when you get ready to exhibit. 

Michelle Zupan

Curator
Hickory Hill
The historic home of Senator Thomas E. Watson.
502 Hickory Hill Drive
Thomson, GA  30824
Phone: 706.595.7777
FAX: 706.595.7177

Visit us at www.hickory-hill.org

=========================================================
Important Subscriber Information:

The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).