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When you find artifacts, such as buckles etc, i find that when you clean them , they look great until they dry.
They then normally loose their shiny appearance.
I have read that a lot of people use an oil such as Olive oil, to keep the luster look on the artifact.
Has anyone tried this method, and what methods do you use to make your finds look good  ???
Thanks all
Ace  ;)

Unfortunately using water to clean any copper alloy such as brass or bronze will dull the surface by showing up the pitting that is on the surface, using a baby toothbrush may help as its not as abrasive.
Olive oil does give a lustre, but it is not recommended on any important find as it contains two types of acids, which on some artifacts will do more harm than good.

Renwax (or Renaissance wax polish) is a micro-crystaline wax polish used by the British Museum to preserve bronzes etc. Do a google search for more details and if you want to go that route; it's readily available on ebay (don't forget your cashback).

I also have another micro-crystaline wax from Regtons which you apply by boiling. This ensures that all the pores are sealed to prevent further exposure to air and humidity.

But remember never to clean, straighten or otherwise attempt to renovate a find unless you are absolutely certain that you are not going to destroy the historic or indeed intrinsic value of the artefact.

Thanks for the tip boys, i've just ordered the wax, and can't wait to try some.
Thanks again men
Ace  ;)