Copper Alloy Ring

(0000.02.3022)

Project Duration: 20 hours

Dimensions: Diameter: 2.3cm, H: 1cm

Materials: Copper Alloy

Object Description: Two thick copper alloy wires approximately 15 cm in length twisted together and formed into an irregularly shaped open ring. The two ends of the wires overlap each other by 3 cm. One end of the twisted wire has a knot.

Condition:

Ring is structurally stable but is likely missing a knot on one end of the twisted wire. Appears to have active corrosion over most of the surface. Corrosion ranges from deep green to chalky pale green, with small blisters forming in places. The interstices between the wires are full of burial dirt.

Treatment:

Removed Liquitex coating with acetone using swab. Mechanically removed corrosion the object using swabs, scalpel, sewing pin, and glass bristle brush. Performed a solution of 3% BTA in Ethanol and soaked overnight. Used a scalpel to remove a corrosion sample. Sample tested positive for chlorides using a silver nitrate test.