Does cleaning a keris hurt overall value or patina?

[dave78]

Well since you all agree, and, as was pointed out, because of the cultural differences, the "rules" regarding refinishing are also different as they are here in the west. I'll use all your valuable tips and clean and preserve the whole keris. This may take awhile, but I'll post pictures when I'm done.

Thanks again for all the expert advice.

[David]

Originally Posted by dave78

Well since you all agree, and, as was pointed out, because of the cultural differences, the "rules" regarding refinishing are also different as they are here in the west.

Just to be clear Dave, "cleaning" and "refinishing" are not the same thing. I am less inclined to encourage anyone to "refinish" their keris dress. That would involve sanding, staining and the application of new finish to the wood. It would involve the removal of old patina. Cleaning and oiling/waxing the wood is far less invasive and preserves both the patina and the wood itself.