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How to Clean Rocks Containing Fossils

Whether a fossil is of scientific value depends in part on where it was found. To help document fossils you find, take notes on the location. Note local geology and the rock layers above and below, if you can see them. Make sketches and photographs. You can clean any fossils you happen to find quite easily with simple tools.

Things You'll Need

Soft paintbrush
Bowl with warm water
Dental pick

Instructions

- 1
  Use a soft paintbrush. Remove loose dirt and dust from the rock using a dry, soft brush. Carefully brush into crevices and around any fossils.
- 2
  If the rock still needs cleaning, prepare a warm water bath. Put warm water in a bowl and use it to gently clear dirt from the fossil.
- 3
  If necessary, use a dental pick to clear dirt and debris from small areas around the fossil.
- 4
  Repair any broken fossils. According to the University of California Museum of Paleontology, a broken fossil can be repaired with ordinary white glue.

Fossil Collecting