Thats awesome.
It will eventually fade but I don't think there is anyway to dtop that other than keeping it out of the sun. Be extremely careful when dusting it as it will be most fragile.
The bees nest is best obviously after it freezes, but before it rains. Other than that, bug spray works. Dose it real good, then let it dry and it will be fine. There might be a bit of an odor for awhile, but it will disappear. When you collect it, store it somewhere where it won't hurt if a bee or two comes out....like not over your bed for instance.