There is a discussion going on about the possible negative impact on leather/beaded Native American artifacts on long term display in the open without being covered by a vitrine or case of some kind. We have of course discussed the issues of theft, vandalism, and bug infestation. One of the other things we are concerned about is the impact of dust settling on the leather, especially some of the white swede and the ability to fully clean the leather by just using low suction vacuuming without the need for a conservator. Does anyone have any information or thoughts on the impact of dust on artifacts like this?

Feel free to contact me off-line, and as always thanks for the help.