Preservation
Fossils
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Permineralization: Groundwater filling empty pore spaces in hard parts (bone, wood) with minerals like silica or calcite.
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Replacement: The original skeletal material is completely dissolved and replaced by a new mineral.
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Recrystallization: The original mineral structure changes into a more stable mineral, often altering the crystal structure while keeping the shape.
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Molds and Casts: An organism leaves an impression in sediment (mold), which later fills with mineral matter to create a 3D replica (cast).
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Carbonization (Compression): Organic material is compressed, leaving a thin carbon film, often seen in leaves or fish.
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Unaltered Remains: Preservation in amber, ice, or tar, protecting soft tissues from decay.
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Trace Fossils: Fossilized evidence of activity, such as footprints, burrows, or coprolites.
Artifacts
Environmental Control & Storage
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Maintain Stable Climate: Keep temperatures consistent, ideally between 60-70°F (15-21°C), and relative humidity between 40-50%.
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Avoid Extremes: Do not store items in attics, basements, or garages, which often experience high fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
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Use Archival Materials: Store artifacts in acid-free boxes, tissue paper, folders, and stable plastics (e.g., polyethylene or polypropylene).
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Prevent Light Damage: Keep items out of direct sunlight and avoid harsh, high-intensity lighting. Use UV-filtering glass or film for display cases.
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Ensure Proper Air Quality: Store away from sources of pollutants like fireplaces, cooking areas, or cigarette smoke. Use HVAC systems with air filters.
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Protect from Pests: Regularly check for signs of insects or rodents, especially in areas with high humidity, which attract mold.
Handling & Cleaning
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Use Gloves: Wear clean, white cotton or nitrile gloves to prevent transferring oils from skin to delicate surfaces.
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Handle with Care: Always handle artifacts with extreme care, supporting the entire object rather than picking it up by fragile handles or protrusions.
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Minimize Cleaning: Do not clean artifacts unless absolutely necessary. Avoid commercial cleaners, polishes, or oils, as these can cause permanent damage.
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Prevent Contact: Ensure items do not touch one another in storage to prevent chemical reactions or physical damage.
Documentation & Organization
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Cataloging: Keep a detailed, organized record of the object, including its origin, material, and a photograph.
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Labeling: Use reversible, non-damaging methods for labeling. Labels should be secure but easily removable.
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Redundant Information: Place a copy of the documentation inside the container with the artifact, in case the outside label becomes unreadable.
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Rotation: Regularly rotate items on display to limit exposure to light and environmental stressors.
Specific Material Considerations
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Wood: Protect from low humidity to prevent cracking and high humidity to avoid mold.
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Paper/Documents: Store flat in acid-free folders, separating older, highly acidic paper (like newspaper) from other items.
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Photographs: Handle by edges only, store in cold/dry areas in inert plastic sleeves, and avoid self-adhesive albums.
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Metals: Require very low humidity to prevent corrosion and oxidation
