How to Clean Asian Bone Carvings
Bone carving was an art used by many ancient cultures. Asian bone carvings are carvings that use animal bones. They are porous and generally smooth and, depending on the age and history of the piece, can vary in color and condition. When you acquire an Asian bone carving, you should not consider improving its condition by cleaning it in a traditional sense, which could actually damage the carving. Instead, implement techniques to polish and smooth the bone carving, restoring its condition as a treasured antique.
- Polishing rag
- Buffing rag
- Soft cloth
- Vinegar
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Instructions
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1
Polish and buff the bone carving with a clean, soft cloth or a buffing cloth. You can purchase a buffing cloth at any jewelry store. Patiently rub the carving with the cloth in small, circular movements.
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2
Dip a clean rag into a water and vinegar solution. Gently rub areas of the carving that are soiled with dirt.
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3
Rinse the area by dipping a clean part of the cloth into warm, distilled water. As soon as you rinse it, immediately go over it again with a dry cloth so that it dries quickly. Do not run water over the piece of splash the piece to rinse it.