Can I sand ammonite specimen shell to create more iridescence

[AP37]

Hello everyone, 

I am new here to the Forum, but have been a fossil enthusiast all my life.

New to the ammonite world, and have a fixation currently on preparing specimens for their iridescent shells. 

In the pictures posted, I'll drill out host rock to try and show/find more colour.

 

My question is (and I know the iridescence has to do with the layers of the shell and light refraction)

 

Can I sand down what I think Is a thick layer of shell and uncover or possible create more colour? Iridescent patterns

Edited November 10, 2022 by AP37

[Ptychodus04]

Nope. The layers are microscopic so, all you would do is scratch through several layers. This will effectively remove all iridescence.

[AP37]

17 minutes ago, Ptychodus04 said:

Nope. The layers are microscopic so, all you would do is scratch through several layers. This will effectively remove all iridescence.

As I am currently experiencing with my test specimens.

But wasn't sure, so thanks!

I'll continue to just remove host rock and leave the surfaces as is

[RJB]

  I don't know about those ammo's from Madagascar but here in Montana we get some rather large ammo's, Placenticeras, that can have several layers of color.  The Spheno's in South Dakota can also have very thick layers and you can sometimes literally chase reds or greens by taking off top layer's.  Those very colorful ones in Canada, I think those are Placenticeras, you can also chase colors too.  Whatever you do, I wish you the best of luck

 

RB