The shells have some erosion in the flutes and are stained with some chips. They have been in her yard in Seattle for 40 years. I think she got them when they were in the military overseas.
2006-06-21 07:47:58 · 3 answers · asked by cshells 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
I don't think you can clean them. And the staining is what? Discoloration of shells happens naturally over time. I wouldn't advise the soda and water. Basic solutions can be just as harmful. If you do clean them use Distilled water, but really don't. Calcium carbonate (calcite) that makes up modern shells reacts with any water to form carbonic acid which will wear away at the shell. My advice for preservation? Some place clean and dry with low humidity. And live with the staining because you'd do more damage getting the stains out.
2006-06-21 13:12:11 · answer #1 · answered by bunny_952000 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Use a mild solution of soda and water. The water should not be acidic.
2006-06-21 14:56:14 · answer #2 · answered by ag_iitkgp 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do you live near the sea? You need to wash them in sea water. Washing them in fresh water will cause them to dissolve.
2006-06-21 14:52:12 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋