Traditional Chemical: Cyanide or Thiourea. Retains original tones well but is harsh on the plate surface and can
lead to quick re-tarnishing or hazing.

Galvanic: Tin foil, water and detergent. Can also be quite harsh on the plate’s surface.
Electro: Ammonia, water and a solid silver or platinum wand connected to an electrical current and the dag.

My preferred method which is kinder to the plate’s micro-structure and highly controllable by putting the
wand over the area that needs the most attention while leaving the peripheries less effected. Can sometimes
reduce the gold tonality slightly.

Laser: The fourth way is considered by researchers as the best method for cleaning daguerreotypes but is
costly and not available readily available. Thus far, this method is only carried out by large research institutions
with access to costly clinical equipment.

Conservation Service Terms & Conditions:
Given the complex nature of restoration work and potential unknown chemical reactions of some plates, our
insurance company does not cover the workmanship involved in cleaning. The risk of plate clouding following
cleaning is very small but it is it is understood that it is undertaken at the risk of the owner. We do take every
precaution however and handle each image like it was an original plate by Daguerre himself. Theft and
accidental damage is covered up to £1,000 while in our hands.

Return Shipping: We pack all our items exceptionally well and offer a range of services from Royal Mail Fully
Tracked and Signed For right through to couriers. Shipping insurance is provided free of charge up to £50 ($75)
– additional insurance above this will be quoted. For packages in the UK, a Special Delivery service will be used
costing £9.50 for 1 up to 5 daguerreotype sized images. Internationally, packages will be sent via a Royal Mail
Tracked & Singed for service costing £19.75 for 1 up to 5 daguerreotype sized images.