Good post...also, keep in mind, bleach (borax) will damage the bone. If you follow the tips mentioned earlier for removing the claw sheath from the claw bone, then just boil the bones in water with dish or dishwasher soap until the meat is gone. This will degrease and deflesh the bone. Now, just add some 40 volume peroxide to the water and in just a few minutes, those bones will be bright white and won't continue to oxidize and get chalky. It's how many folks do skulls as well.
I use them to make Native American artwork like necklaces, spears, cerimonial staffs, etc...
~ Best