Miocene Fish prep way forward...

[andy_mnemonic]

Hello everyone!

 

I found this fish in the Monterey Formation in California and have been unable to get the middle to pop off.  I have zero experience preparing fossils of this type so I'm looking for some beginner advice on how to proceed without totally botching it.

 

Thanks!

 

[Macrophyseter]

I don't believe that I may be of much help, but where in the Monterey Fm did you find that fossil? Just curious because I also have direct access to some Monterey Shale, although the rocks here aren't nearly as fossiliferous as places like central California or Santa Barbara.

[andy_mnemonic]

I found it near Jalama Beach in Santa Barbara county.  It has been fairly easy to find fossilized scales and pieces of fish but this was my first with decent soft tissue preservation so I'm trying not to ruin it!

[ynot]

@Ptychodus04

[Ptychodus04]

How hard is the matrix? Can you easily scratch or gouge it, or is it really hard?

 

If soft, you can start by splitting the edges away with a small hammer and a thin putty knife until you get close to the fossil. Then, use a needle or dental pick to carefully scrape away the matrix 

 

Thanks for the heads up @ynot

[Fossildude19]

These are all tools that could possibly be used. 

 

      

 

 

 

Use the putty or hobby knife with blade angled as close to the matrix as possible. 

Steadily tap the knife end with a small ball peen hammer or tack hammer. (I have used screwdriver handles for a lighter touch.) 

Try to get the blade as far under the matrix as you can, before attempting to lift off the matrix to be removed.

Start with the best edges. 

 

[andy_mnemonic]

Thank you all for your help!  I sharpened a putty knife and was able to get most of the matrix off, then I did some finer removal with a hobby knife.  I think it turned out pretty well for my first time.

 

Thanks again!

[ynot]

Looks nice!

Well done!