How would you clean this bridle rosette?

[Gridwalker306]

I found this rosette seven years ago and didn't think much of it then. Last year I found a nearly identical one in great shape, and it had a Native American(?) head/face etched onto it by hand.

Looking through my piles of stuff I rediscovered this old one tonight. I see that there is something scratched into this one as well.

I'd like to be able to clean the crap off of it to reveal the scratches, who knows maybe it matches my other one.

Anybody have any ideas?

 

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[BagLady]

Most bridle rosettes were made out of Brass, Tin, Aluminum. I wouldn't think you could hurt it if you started with dish soap and a toothbrush.
Maybe some brass cleaner (Brasso) if that doesn't work?

 

[Loco-Digger]

I see that many people use naval jelly to clean buttons, Maybe give that a try. Swab it on and let it sit for 10 minutes and then thoroughly rinse. Maybe do it for 5 minutes to see how it reacts.

 

[Gridwalker306]

Thanks for the responses. I'm nervous to use brasso, but I have heard of naval jelly. Next time I go to the city I will look for some. Who knows if it'll work on the rosette, but I'd like some for my buttons anyway.

Here's a shot of both rosettes, you can see how delicate the scratches are that make the image. I'd like to reveal the image on the dirty one without losing detail. It's killing me not being able to see what's on there!

 

[villagenut]

Just remember, whenever you clean the surface of something old , you can never go back...IMO.

 

[civil_war22]

I've used olive oil and it's done pretty good. If it's toasted it's not gonna matter but yours seem to be in good condition for a resto.

 

[Gridwalker306]

Just remember, whenever you clean the surface of something old , you can never go back...IMO.

I know, and that's why I'm taking my time and asking for advice. I certainly don't want to damage it. 🙂

 

[Gridwalker306]

I've used olive oil and it's done pretty good. If it's toasted it's not gonna matter but yours seem to be in good condition for a resto.

Thanks, I'll try to determine what sort of metal it is and see if the olive oil is a good match.