Artefact Identification

It is important to be able to identify the the significance of your finds.

For me personally without a doubt its one of the highlights of this pastime.

Prior to any cleaning process you should try to identify your find.

Any cleaning can have a detrimental affect on its context and potential value.

Once a determination has been reached then think about how to clean and preserve.

Reference books are my favorite source for Id's but the internet is an

excellent means of gaining information. 

The Portable Antiquities scheme database is also my go to resource.

A good magnifier is recommended. I use an illuminated desk magnifier and digital version for higher magnification requirements. Head mounted binocular styles are also very useful for longer term cleaning projects.

Cleaning is always a contentious issue with detectorists.

I tend to fall into the less is more category and follow a more preservation route.

I minimize the use of chemical involvement unless 'bronze disease' is present and opt for manual cleaning approach with wood toothpicks and soft bamboo toothbrushes. If artifacts are of copper base metal origins minimize the use of water. I do like to finish my copper finds with renaissance wax if they are not significant. Preserve in air tight containers or displays.