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Techniques for CollectorsRemoving metal brush deposits from tourmaline.

11th Feb 2012 01:44 UTCJenna Mast

As I did not have an air compressor, I decided to use a steel brush attachment that came with my dremel to remove lepidolite coatings from tourmaline that I couldn't removing any other way. This works, however it also leave a thin metal deposit on the crystals. I only did a test section. I don't want to continue until I know how to remove the deposit. Does anyone have any suggestions?


Jenna

11th Feb 2012 02:36 UTCJoseph Polityka Expert

Jenna,


Try using a wet Brillo Pad. I have used them with harder gem minerals to remove thin coatings.


Best,


Joe

11th Feb 2012 10:54 UTCLuca Baralis Expert

I don't use steel brush on hard rocks for this reason.

Some ideas:

toothpaste and brush (and time...)

acid

ammonia

polish paste/pad for metals objects

an home made electrolytic device


However I've never tried any of that.

11th Feb 2012 15:59 UTCWilliam C. van Laer Expert

Jenna:


Complete removal is somewhat dependant on what type of metal brush you used: steel wire would require a soaking in warm/hot hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid), while a brass brush would require a soak in waek nitric acid. Both reactions would be facilitated by adding heat, but either will give off noxious fumes, so please use caution and do this under a fume hood.

Chris

12th Feb 2012 06:42 UTCJenna Mast

Thanks for the suggestions everyone. I'll see if I can give some of them a try.


Jenna
 
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