I Need Help Determining % Of Repair On This Plate Of Russian Trilobites

[hollywatertower]

Thanks to piranha, I believe these bugs are Asaphus Punctatus. Now I'm trying to determine the % of repair. I photographed them while under UV light. They look pretty good to me. Just guessing, I'd say about 5% (total guess). I'd greatly appreciate any opinions on the % of repair (or on any other matters)! The cystoid was definitely added to the plate. I'm a total novice when it comes to fossils. I bought a large collection and am learning as I go. Thanks in advance!!

[2ynpigo]

It looks like the amount of restoration is small based on the UV light test.

[hollywatertower]

Thanks 2ynpigo; I appreciate you taking the time to look at the pictures!

[Auspex]

Thank you, for posting images of the "UV Test"! Such a test is occasionally discussed here, but images of the results are hard to come by. Many readers will now have a better understanding of the concept.

[hollywatertower]

I hope some readers may find the UV light test beneficial; I never realized that you could black light fossils (until squalicorax recommended I try it). I've been doing it on old oil paintings and antiquities for years. I love the way it exposes all of the repairs!

[squali]

Very interesting. Do you think it indicates that the fossils were glued to the matrix rather than being exposed in it?

Some of the pictures seem to show a line running around the base of the fossil

[hollywatertower]

Squali,

I know that the cystoid is added to the plate; whatever holds it to the matrix fluoresces. As to the trilobites, The fluorescent material was used to make repairs. The lines appear to be scratches (they are not fluorescent); there doesn't appear to be added material when looked at with a loop. This is all new to me. I have a ton to learn; and appreciate any and all opinions!!

Thanks,

Bill

Edited February 7, 2014 by hollywatertower

[squalicorax]

That is a fantastic plate. And thank you very much for showing the UV picture.

[hollywatertower]

Thanks everyone!!