Care, storage & display
Glass is durable but not invincible. Most damage collectors cause is avoidable: marbles knocking together, aggressive cleaning, and sudden temperature changes.
Cleaning
Warm water, a drop of mild dish soap and your fingers. Rinse and dry with a soft cloth. Never use abrasive powders, wire wool or ultrasonic cleaners — they scratch glass and can lift painted or transferred surfaces.
What not to do
- Do not polish or buff a marble to hide wear — it destroys collector value.
- Do not run hot water over cold glass; thermal shock cracks marbles.
- Do not store painted, comic or character marbles in direct sunlight.
Storage
Keep marbles separated so they cannot roll against each other. Compartment trays, foam-lined cases and individual pouches all work. A jar looks great but grinds the surfaces over time.
Display
Ring stands and small acrylic cups hold spheres safely. Indirect light shows lutz, mica and dichroic effects best. Keep display shelves away from radiators and windows.