Eroded nodules preparation help.

[Argentum66]

I've been collecting casually for about 40 years in the UK, mostly on the Yorkshire coast and have built quite a collection of, what I think, are reasonable ammonites and other fossils, some of which can be seen in IMGP3195 below. I have either found these already split or been able to split them quite easily with just a hammer and chisel.

But I have also amassed a large number of unprepared part eroded nodules which I am unsure how to split or prepare as seen in IMGP3197. Wondered if anyone can suggest how to go about uncovering these ammonites without damaging them in the process. I have a good collection of general tools but no specialist fossil preparation equipment.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Randyw]

The first question is what tools do you have? Here was my early prep tool up until just a couple months ago

[FossilNerd]

8 minutes ago, Randyw said:

The first question is what tools do you have? Here was my early prep tool up until just a couple months ago

 

I’ve seen you hint at your new prep setup a couple of times. So what does the new setup look like? Inquiring minds want to know!   

[Ludwigia]

If you don't have anything like a pneumatic stylus or a dremel, then you'll just have to resort to small pointy-tipped chisels, a hammer and a good portion of luck with those ones. It helps if you can hold the fossil in a vise, leaving both hands free to clout away at it. Work your way slowly through the whorls, starting at the outside and working inwards to the center. Short firm taps are what are needed.

[Randyw]

1 hour ago, FossilNerd said:

 

I’ve seen you hint at your new prep setup a couple of times. So what does the new setup look like? Inquiring minds want to know!   

LOL! Its a lot like my old one but i’ve added an air scribe. Ive got an air abraider now too but I’m still setting that up and need a blast box for it.

[FossilNerd]

8 minutes ago, Randyw said:

LOL! Its a lot like my old one but i’ve added an air scribe. Ive got an air abraider now too but I’m still setting that up and need a blast box for it.

Very nice! Congrats on getting your hands on some air tools. I know you have wanted them for a while now. 

[Mark Kmiecik]

And wear a mask at least, or preferably a respirator. The dust from prepping fossils will do major damage to your lungs.

[Randyw]

1 hour ago, Mark Kmiecik said:

And wear a mask at least, or preferably a respirator. The dust from prepping fossils will do major damage to your lungs.

AMEN! You definetly doent wanna do that..eye protection of some kind is a good idea too