Home

FOR SALE
 Minerals
Low Price Pieces
Books
Cabochons
Faceted
Tumbled
Jewelry
Ordering
Ebay Items

How I cleaned my geologist pick (or rock hammer).
When field collecting, I typically use a large rectangular plastic bucket.  It's original use was for the sale of cat litter.  I like using the bucket out in the field because of its size, handle, and bright color.  I would bring the materials home and shortly after empty the bucket.  My hammer, chisel and safety glasses usually sat alone in the bucket after that waiting for my next trip.

I unfortunately made a trip once on a very rainy day and left all the materials in the bucket for an excessive amount of time.  I had forgotten about it.  The detrimental effect on my hammer is shown below it used to be nice and shiny:

I had the challenge of how to clean it.  I did the following steps:
1. Scrubbed with a wire brush
2. Rubbed down with sand paper
3. Wiped down with a paper towel to remove loose rusty powder
4. Put a small amount of oil and rubbed into the metal with a clean paper towel.
I was happy with the results.  It's not perfect, but I may try the process over again later.  The picture may not do it justice.


after

I'll be ready to bring it back out into the field again.  I will try and remember from now on to put it away after each trip, rather than leave it in the bucket.