Tarnish on gold-plated, silver medal

[Teri Hedgpeth]

Hello,  a sister institution has noticed tarnish on the edge of a gold-plated silver medal and has asked for asssistance.  The medal has lacquer on the back and I am afraid the chemicals used in the lacquer may be reacting with the gold or silver.  Any suggestions regarding treatment of this would be appreciated.  I’ve suggested removing from display and wrapping in acid-free tissue and placing in an archival seal bag to safeguard it in the meantime.  Thank you.

[Helena Jaeschke]

You could put a piece of active charcoal or silversafe cloth in with the item to adsorb or react with any possible pollutants from the varnish.

 

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