Even more than carvings and ornaments, these should be handled as little as possible. Specimens are often quite fragile and may have tiny cracks and weaknesses that are not visible. Handling can weaken the specimen, as well as increase the risk of them being dropped or hitting something.

Because many mineral specimens have rough under-sides, they can be displayed on a mat or base which holds them solidly while protecting the surface they sit on.

The best way to clean most mineral specimens is with clean (preferably soft) plain water, applied carefully with the tap, a spray, a humidifier bottle, or a toothbrush, depending on the size and/or strength of the piece. Ultrasonic machines are also a good way to clean specimens although they can also be rough on porous areas of specimens and can dislodge parts that you might want preserved (always take care with crystal clusters). For more information on ultrasonic cleaning, click here. After any cleaning, it is important to dry the piece in a warm ventilated area. Outside on a hot day is good provided there is no dust, or birds overhead! Excess water can be removed from crevices with a cotton bud or absorbent cloth.

Treat your mineral specimens after a clean with a splash of mineral oil in a humidifier bottle, half filled with water and shaken. Lightly spray the oily mist over the specimen and leave it in a warm clean place to dry. After a few hours or the following day wipe the specimen with a soft cloth to remove any excess oil. Most stones love water and oil.

Watch out for:

Minerals like Selenite and Halite are badly affected by humidity and dampness and can loose their polish, definition, or even completely dissolve. Be careful when displaying or storing these stones to avoid these hazards. Never clean them with water. Selenite can be wiped with a soft lightly-damp cloth and immediately dried, but Halite should never be around water. It is salt and it will dissolve.

Boji Stones© (Kansas Pop Rocks) should never be left touching each other. Charges build between the pieces and they start dulling and crumbling away. As the original name implies, they can literally pop open.

Iron Meteorites will rust given half a chance. They can be given protective coatings, but should always be kept well away from dampness, humidity and aliens.