How large of an object is it?   If it is small, (e.g. coins, jewelry, 
etc).  I would recommend a basic Specific Gravity test.  You can purchase a 
smaller Specific Gravity Kit at most "rock shops" or online at any lab 
supply website.
    Specific Gravity testing is non intrusive and you will not damage the 
objects, they will however, get wet, with mineral water, so take that into 
consideration.  And remember to dry the objects properly (pat dry not rub).

Here's a helpful link: http://www.mineralab.com/Specific%20Gravity.htm.



Erik J. Heikkenen





>From: Todd Bothel <[log in to unmask]>
>Reply-To: Museum discussion list <[log in to unmask]>
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Metal Testing Kit
>Date: Thu, 28 Jun 2007 10:22:01 -0400
>
>Does anyone know of a metal testing kit that can help determine what type 
>of
>metal an object may be made of? My collections cataloging ladies don't know
>that much about the different types of metals (and I confess, I'm not that
>knowledgable either) and want to be able to put down something more
>specific than metal on the catalog sheet.
>
>Thanks.
>
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