Picture example of non-conservation framing
Most pictures that are going to be framed (either prints, posters, or photographs), can deteriorate over time if they are not framed with conservation techniques; primarily due to color fading, though more serious damage can also occur. Lithographic or serigraphic images of limited edition prints are made from individual pigment colors pressed onto the paper that may not all have the same color light-fastness, leading to one color fading before the rest; and resulting in a strange looking image and the ruining of the value of the collector item. This is true even for photographs, which use different chemicals in the paper to render a colored image, which may not be as valuable in terms of dollars, but they are your treasured memories.
Scroll down to see the simulated examples.
(click on an image to see a larger size)
Above is the original image. Notice the variety of colors present.
Above is the same image with the red badly faded out.
Above is the same image with the blue badly faded out.
Above is the same image with the green badly faded out.
Print publishers and color photographers don't actually use red, blue, and green pigments, so this is not an exact duplication of damaged prints. However, I think the point is certainly made. If you want your treasured images to remain in great shape for longer than a few short years, it is recommended that you use conservation quality materials. This includes mats made of archival cotton fibers, a backing with an archival cotton barrier, and glass that filters out ultraviolet light.
Posters can suffer a similar degradation, though these are not always as valuable as limited edition prints. Other types of artwork can be damaged too, so don't take any chances.
I have personally seen much damaged artworks, photographs, and posters over the years. Don't let it happen to you!
In short, if you want it to last, ask your framer about conservation protection!
