Conservation · Silver
Salt and Pepper Set
Treatment of severe corrosion on a silver salt and pepper set using experimental chemical methods to restore its original appearance.
-
Client
Private Property
-
Period
Unknown, probably 20th century
-
Origin
University of Amsterdam
-
Duration
1 month
Challenge
The silver set exhibited severe corrosion with green copper corrosion and red copper oxide layers that completely obscured the original appearance. Mechanical cleaning methods alone were insufficient to remove the deeper corrosion layers without damaging the underlying silver.
Approach
A phased approach was developed where mechanical cleaning was first applied to its limits, followed by experimental chemical treatments to remove stubborn corrosion products. Various chemical solutions were tested to determine the most effective and safe method.
Outcome
The corrosion products were successfully removed, revealing the original silver surface. The experimental approach with various chemical treatments provided valuable insights for future conservation projects with similar corrosion challenges. The set was treated under the supervision of an experienced metal conservator.
Techniques
- Mechanical cleaning with solvents
- Cleaning with calcium carbonate
- Chemical treatment with buffered citric acid
- Experimental treatment with phosphoric acid
- EDTA treatment
- Alkaline Rochelle salt treatment
- Copper oxide removal with ammonia (2-4%)
Materials
- Solvents
- Calcium carbonate
- Buffered citric acid
- Phosphoric acid
- EDTA
- Alkaline Rochelle salt
- Ammonia (2-4%)
Interested in conservation services?
Each project receives individual attention, with a treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of your object.