Why do your trophies loose shine after few years?

All about trophies

Trophies act like a sense of achievement and are therefore, admired for years. These objects of appreciations come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. Though expensive, gold and silver trophies are the most popular varieties. Metals and wood were the only materials used for trophy making earlier. However, trophies made of crystal and marbles have become common these days. The word trophy is coined from a French word ‘trophee’. This indicated an object of the looser that the winner got for victory. The object could be anything such as an armour, a knife, or even a body part of the looser. A trophy is a reward for an extra-ordinary achievement. This also serves as a proof or a reminder of the achievement.

Preventing degradation of trophies

Degradation of trophies and medals is a natural process as they are made of metals. A proper maintenance can prevent early damage to them. Many people have reported that their childhood trophies are no more in a condition of displaying. This happens when trophies have been neglected for years. Trophies are very often placed at the most noticeable place of the house and they remain there for years. However, they are never maintained.

What to do with a degraded trophy?

In order to keep that new look in these objects, people have to take care of them. If damaged has occurred, little can be done to restore it. If desired, people may approach professionals who deal with restoration work of ancient artifacts, museum pieces etc.

Protecting your trophies from degradation

Sunlight is another factor for erosion of trophies. They should not be exposed to direct sunlight for a long time. Avoid keeping your prizes at a corner of the room, which receives sunlight for a long time. With time, dust takes away the shine of the object and makes it look dull. The trophies therefore, need frequent light dusting. Always keep your trophies in climate-controlled areas. They should not be exposed to dampness, as it will degrade the trophy material. Excessive dampness can cause mold and mildew and destroy the material. Whenever we touch the trophy, we leave our skin oil on it. This oil also makes the object look dull by accumulating dust on it.