protecting, finishing alabaster

[Biomorph]

I have some white [only slightly translucent] alabaster pieces that are finished down to 600/800 which gives enough mat to show good shadows. I don't want a gloss finish but would like some--any--protection as the alabaster is very soft and vulnerable. I suspect that the answer is that if I want something that will be impervious and last, I should be carving in granite. Short of that, is there any finish that would help. I'll experiment with clear satin varnish but wondered if there was some technique that would be better. Can I do a wax without shining it up too much?

[Julianna]

I use Akemi, and I know some have melted wax onto alabaster successfully.

[LimeCutter]

I think you have answered you're own question. You can't wax it unless you want to change the surface finish.

The best way to protect your alabaster piece is to never let anyone touch it

I have used alabaster a lot and love to carve it particularly for the speed at which I can work it. If I want a polished finished I buff it with pure carnuba wax. If I want a matt finish I will leave the surface as you described. I have stopped using alabaster.

I wouldn't advise varnishing it. Leave it as it is and set it free - let go.

[Biomorph]

Thanks for the thoughts. Where I am at the moment is trying a matte sealer from Design-Cast. They were quite responsive. Their main product is a sculpting medium that is advertised as usable in outdoor sculptures. They also indicate that it is granite hard, tho the sealer hardly seems to meet that standard.