How to Care for Antique Jewellery
Antique jewellery may combine metals, stones, enamel, pearls, hair, glass, foil backings and old repairs. One cleaning method cannot suit all. Inspect clas
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Care & Preservation
34 published guides on repair, care and the stories behind well-made things.
How to Care for Parchment and Vellum Documents
Parchment and vellum are prepared animal skin, not paper. They react strongly to moisture and can cockle or become translucent. Support fully, limit light
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How to Care for Antique Copper and Brass
Copper alloys develop varied surface colours through manufacture, use, oxidation and past cleaning. Dust with a soft cloth and distinguish stable dark pati
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How to Preserve an Antique Photograph Album
A photograph album combines images, paper, adhesives, binding and annotations. Each component can age differently. Keep the original order, handle pages fr
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How to Care for Antique Iron and Steel
Iron and steel are highly vulnerable to moisture and salts. Tools, locks, arms, clocks and furniture fittings may combine metal with wood, leather or coati
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How to Care for Antique Musical Instruments
Historic instruments are both functional objects and records of makers, players and alteration. Playing condition is not always the same as conservation co
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How to Care for Antique Pewter
Pewter is a family of tin-rich alloys used for plates, tankards and domestic objects. Composition and condition vary with period and origin. Dust gently an
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How to Care for Antique Coral Objects
Coral appears in jewellery, carvings and mounted decorative objects. It is porous, can fade and is subject to wildlife-trade controls. Handle with clean dr
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How to Care for Antique Feathers and Featherwork
Feather fans, hats, pictures and ceremonial objects are vulnerable to insects, light, crushing and vibration. Handle by a sound mount rather than the feath
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How to Care for Antique Fans
Fans combine thin sticks, guards, paper, silk, feathers, paint, metal and delicate pivot fittings. Open only as far as it moves freely and support the leaf
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How to Preserve Antique Dolls and Soft Toys
Dolls and toys may combine textile, stuffing, leather, wood, composition, ceramic, glass, hair and paint. Support heads and joints, lift from the torso and
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How to Care for Antique Amber
Amber is fossilised resin. It is lightweight, can carry surface crazing and may be confused with later plastics or other resins. Handle gently and protect
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