James, I've heard of using baby oil or mineral oil on shells and it wouldn't
harm the shell since it's pretty inert. I have used mineral oil on shells
with no ill effects. Vicky Wall

James M Cheshire wrote:

> Dear all, I just oiled some self collected Nassarius vibex and
> an Epitonium rupicola. Now, I was wondering, does this decrease the
> value of the shell? I heard it is a great thing to do, as it restores the
> shells
> natural oil, and enhances the color. Should I have done this, or not?
>
> Regards,
> James