Hi! It really depends on the thickness and part of the shell you're talking about. If its a thicker, heavier shell it should hold up just fine, but the periostracum (the "skin", so to speak, on the outside of the shell) will eventually crack over time. I would definitely reoil that part, and if the shell is quite thin, then I would reoil the whole shell. Another option that I've found that works well since I made this video, is to use a Q-Tip and Vaseline instead of Steel Wool and Mineral Oil. If anything, it may work better, but the shell will be much more greasier. Hope this helps!

@@weouthere1104 It is quite thick, I have found out that it's a european flat oyster shell of about 15 layers (if I counted correctly). I think ill try your oil and Steel wool version, hopefully shine it up a bit. It doesn't seem to have that skin on it I think its been in the sand a while as its quite orange on parts. Thank you for replying and giving those extra tips. I shall try them out.

Glad you enjoyed the video! Who knows, maybe a video like that will be made in the future!

Mineral Oil should work on the abalone shell, but as you said it is mounted on a decorative silver plate. I am unsure if mineral oil is safe for silver, so I would be cautious and look into if mineral oil causes reactions to certain metals, if you choose to use it. Make sure you give it a good wipe-down if you do use it.

I am not quite sure, it depends on if you have freshwater or saltwater shells. I'd assume over time both would gradually get weaker and thinner since vinegar is acidic, with the freshwater shells breaking down quicker than saltwater. This is just a guess, I'm really not sure!