Stone

Physical identification

Marble, limestone, basalt, steatite and carved stone. Record dimensions, weight, manufacture, surfaces, repairs, labels, mounts and inscriptions before cleaning or treatment.

Key cautions

• Stone type can support but not prove origin.
• Acid cleaning can destroy surfaces.
• Heavy objects need engineered mounts.

Provenance and lawful movement

Document texture, joins, deposits, corrosion, movement and prior treatment. Stop handling when surfaces powder, flakes lift, corrosion appears active or cracks move.

Authenticity and conservation

Condition and authenticity can be intertwined. Artificial deposits, modern joins and restored surfaces may disguise manufacture. No single photograph, certificate or test proves the complete history of an object.