Professional pyrite restoration protects against loss of value
Professional treatment with accompanying documentation serves to preserve value, creates transparency and security for both seller and buyer and protects against unpleasant “surprises”.
Fossiland is a leader in the restoration of fossils from Holzmaden affected by pyrite or marcasite decay. The treatment method I have further developed offers the best possible protection against further efflorescence.
15
Years of pyrite remediation
My fixed price offer
Tool
Fine blaster for mechanical cleaning, diamond micro-drilling for deep impregnation, monoethanolamine thioglycollate solution in alcohol, Ultrasound for improved depth effect
Aids
Drying oven or similar, Starbond adhesive for impregnation, ApoxieSculpt and natural pigments, inlet and sealing using polyvinobutryal resin (Paraloid B67).
Security
Dental exhaust air system with micro-fine filter.
Problem Pyritzerfall near Holzmaden-Fossiien
The word “restoration” (Latin: to restore) is derived from the word “restaurare”. Pyrite-containing fossils from the Black Jurassic (Lias) have always been exposed to a particular danger, the transformation of pyrite or marcasite (“efflorescence”). Without conservation measures, there is a risk of total loss in the worst case.
Comprehensive treatment is complex and requires special care and expertise. Its importance lies not only in protecting the objects, but also in increasing their value. Professional execution is crucial in order to safeguard the quality and value of the find in the long term.
Finds from the Toarcium of the Posidonia Shale Formation (Holzmaden, southwest Germany) as well as the French Lorraine Formation or the English Lias often contain marcasite and pyrite, which were formed under low-oxygen conditions. After recovery, contact with oxygen and moisture leads to pyrite decomposition – a process that can cause an increase in volume of over 250 %.
The so-called “pyritic fall” or “efflorescence” leads to cracks, spalling and the uncontrolled breaking up of the fossil substance – often insidiously and irreversibly. Without suitable remediation measures, the process ultimately leads to the destruction of the find.
If a pyrite disorder is suspected, two simple tests can provide clarity. One method is to press a universal indicator paper moistened with distilled water onto the suspected area. Sulphuric acid – a by-product of pyrite oxidation – will show a pH value of 3 or lower. The other method is to moisten a small area with a drop of ammonium hydroxide. If the spot turns brick red after drying, this indicates hematite (Fe₂O₃) – also a by-product of pyrite oxidation.
Early treatment is the key to avoiding costly damage. The aim is to permanently halt or significantly slow down the decay process and thus preserve the fossil for many decades to come – without any aesthetic impairment.
My solution: professional pyrite remediation. I analyze each affected piece individually and implement targeted measures:
- Removal of pyritic components
- Stabilization of the carrier material
- Solidification through preservatives
- Surface sealing with long-term stable materials
Professional refurbishment ensures the long-term value of your find and protects it from dangerous pyritic decay. To ensure the best long-term protection, a controlled indoor climate and regular inspections are recommended.
Expertise
The need for professional treatment is particularly evident in the case of valuable finds that are threatened by pyritic decay. Each case of damage requires individual assessment and planning. In-depth knowledge of the chemical principles and mechanisms of efflorescence is also required. I have been working intensively on this subject for many years, especially with fossils from Holzmaden.
Examples of successful pyrite restoration by Fossiland can be found in numerous public and private collections. Below is the exhibit in the Luxembourg Museum of Natural History (inventory QK100-5).
The ichthyosaur from the Göppingen Natural History Museum was also saved:
Info Pyrite Falls
You can find more detailed information and examples on the subject on my information page on wood maggot fossils.
Costs of pyrite remediation
The cost of treatment varies depending on the condition and value of the fossil, but the investment is often essential.
The fee for one depends on the difficulty (extent and stage of the pyritic case) and the resources required. As with the preparation, I calculate with an hourly rate of 40,- EUR.
If you are interested, please contact me and send photos without obligation. If your “patient” arouses my interest and I have the necessary capacities, you will receive a fee offer with a fixed price on this basis – without hidden costs, which you can examine at your leisure. If you do not accept the offer, you will not incur any obligations.
Partners
As a restorer specializing in woodchuck ichthyosaurs with pyrite falls, I cooperate closely with scientific institutions and work for many museums.
The restoration options are varied and require both knowledge and skill. Thanks to my experience, I have successfully protected numerous finds from the Pyritzerfall.
I invite you to find out more about the benefits of professional fossil restoration. Just ask me!
Quality promise
As a member of the Association of Applied Paleontology Professionals (AAPS), Fossiland is subject to strict rules of conduct for the responsible handling of fossils. I assure you of serious handling and fair business practices for my fossil appraisals.
