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<p>[QUOTE=&quot;Bronwen, post: 9515642, member: 5833&quot;]The cameos themselves do not look in need of cleaning to me.&nbsp; When I do clean, method depends somewhat on how they are set.&nbsp; These I would not hesitate to soak in mild soap &amp; tap water, followed by the application of a soft toothbrush, pat dry, then leave to air dry for a good long period to make sure metal work is dry before putting away.&nbsp; When soaking is not advisable, I carefully apply toothpaste with the tip of a finger, rub it in, then bring on the trusty toothbrush.&nbsp; Rinse by holding piece sideways to running water &amp; brushing out the paste.&nbsp; Dry well.</p><p><br /></p><p>To oil/not to oil is a question among cameo collectors.&nbsp; I never oil &amp; think it unwise for pieces that are going to be worn.&nbsp; You would not want the pendant to flip around, as they do, &amp; leave oil on your favorite sweater.&nbsp; And earrings get enough oil while being handled to put on &amp; take off.&nbsp; Oil is a dirt magnet.</p><p><br /></p><p>There&#039;s no question that oil - mineral or baby oil - can revive dulled shell, and I can see doing it after hydrating a piece that is going to be displayed rather than worn.&nbsp; You have to clean off &amp; redo periodically.</p><p><br /></p><p>What are your plans for the set?&nbsp; If you&#039;re keeping, clean &amp; polish to the appearance you want.&nbsp;&nbsp; Obviously don&#039;t use a dip tarnish remover.&nbsp; If you&#039;re preparing to sell, you may want to leave as is, some buyers of vintage like the evidence of age.&nbsp; I would put the set to the 1950s, maybe late 40s.[/QUOTE]</p><p><br /></p>

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