========[ Invite a Friend - http://www.ganoksin.com/invite.htm ]========
Peter, You are correct...that is why I recommend vinegar cut with
water. It is quite mild and more easily controlled. The harder
nacre surface of the shell itself tend to resist the vinegar long
enough that the unprotected and (as you say) more pourous calcium can
be either burned away or softened. I would not go so far as to say
this should be an unfounded worry, but if one keeps a good eye on the
process, the shell can be rinsed quick enough to preclude damage to
the shell itself.
A hot water/vinegar mixture is also used to whiten hard coral beads.
Then they can be dyed if one wishes or left white. I have made
quite a few of them. I also use this mixture to clean calcite
crystals that we find on/in shells in SOFL quarrys
Cheers from Don at The Charles Belle Studio in SOFL where simple
elegance IS fine jewelry! dcdietz AT comcast.net
Would you like to reach Members of the Ganoksin Project to educate
them about the wonderful array of supplies, services and products
you have to offer?
Please request a copy of the Ganoksin Media Kit if you would like
more indepth information regarding Ganoksin's advertising services.