Flaking emulsion on the glass negative. In a glass plate negative, the glass is the base, which serves to support the emulsion. The emulsion contains the image. Flaking emulsion results in image loss.

Working with the emulsion side down, the plastic sleeve is cut along one edge and lifted off the plate. Which side has the emulsion? Generally, the emulsion side is dull and much less reflective than the base (glass) side.

Hold glass plates by the edges. Gloves are helpful in protecting emulsions from fingerprints.

Glass plate negatives should be stored in paper enclosures. Be sure that the enclosures have passed PAT (photographic activity test).

Write a description for the plate on the enclosure BEFORE enclosing the plate. For fragile materials such as glass plates, it is best to be as specific as possible in the description to avoid unnecessary handling of the object.

Place the glass emulsion side down on the enclosure.

Fold over the enclosure flaps. Do not press down on the glass plate.

Store glass plates on the long edge. Plates should be vertical and not slanted, leaning in any manner, or shift within the box. Use bolsters to maintain verticality and support.

Using foam core or other rigid divider every several plates will also provide support and maintain plate position.

Glass plates are heavy and fragile. Be sure to alert staff of box contents in clear labels.