💫 Deep-time lore and care
“Gembone” commonly describes polished, silica-rich fossil bone. However, colour and pattern alone cannot prove that a fragment belonged to a dinosaur or identify its species. Geological formation, locality and documented provenance provide the strongest support; without them, “mineralised vertebrate bone” may be the more precise description.
Durability depends on the specimen’s weakest component. Calcite-rich areas may be near Mohs 3, while well-silicified sections may approach 6.5–7. Clean briefly with lukewarm water, neutral soap and a soft cloth or brush, then dry promptly. Avoid acids, prolonged soaking, strong heat, steam and ultrasonic cleaning, especially when fractures, resin, backing or unknown treatments are present.