Care
How should you care for and store a fossil tooth?
Support the tooth on a soft, stable surface, handle fragile tips as little as possible and avoid rapid changes in moisture, temperature and light. Do not use acids or household chemicals. Seek conservation advice if cracks, powdering or loose material appear.
Support it and avoid lifting by the tip
Handle with clean, dry hands at a robust area. Use a padded mount that prevents rolling and pressure on the tip or cutting edges. Keep labels and records with the object without allowing them to abrade its surface.
Keep the environment stable
Museum guidance emphasises stable storage and protection from dust, pollutants, strong light and rapid environmental change. Some minerals and older repair materials may respond to moisture differently from the fossil itself.
Clean as little as necessary
Remove loose dust gently with a very soft, dry brush only when the surface is stable. Do not immerse the tooth or use acid, bleach or household cleaner. Stop if material loosens or a coating becomes tacky.
Practical checklist
- Use a stable, padded support.
- Avoid direct sun and rapid environmental changes.
- Keep drinks and cleaning products away.
- Retain the label, invoice and condition photographs.
- Ask a conservator about active damage.
What this guide cannot prove
General care guidance cannot identify the minerals, adhesives or coatings present in your object. Active cracks, salt growth, powdering or previous restoration require object-specific advice.