Watch out when grindinh abalone - I understand the dust is very dangerous
(poisonous?)!

Tom Rice
-----Original Message-----
From: ferreter <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Friday, January 14, 2000 2:44 AM
Subject: Re: shell cleaning , grinding


>As far as i know Paul, they usually grind a lyer off. the problem with acid
etching is that it takes a layer off both sides,
>you only want the dorsum etched . you could try liberally applying vasiline
to the interior but this doesn't always work.
>looks like grinding is your best shot. use eye protection . ferret
>-----Original Message-----
>From: paul james <[log in to unmask]>
>To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
>Date: Thursday, January 13, 2000 8:46 PM
>Subject: shell cleaning
>
>
>|Hi there.  I'm a student of aquaculture in South Australia and I'm trying
to
>|clean some abalone shells (Haliotis laevigata) for decorative purposes.
I'm
>|trying to find a solvent/acid wash treatment which will remove the
colouring
>|layer from the outer surface so the nacre (mother of pearl) is reached and
>|both sides of the shell appear pearlescent.  Any suitable compounds,
>|treatment duration times and concentrations would be much appreciated.
>|Happy new year and all the best to everyone out there.  It's time for me
to
>|hit the water an enjoy the summer down under.  bye, P.J.
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>