What should divers consider regarding the collection of artifacts from wreck sites?

When considering the collection of artifacts from wreck sites, it is crucial for divers to prioritize the local laws and ethics surrounding artifact collection. This is important because many countries have specific regulations that protect historical sites, including wrecks. Violating these laws can lead to legal consequences and damage the integrity of the site. Additionally, ethical considerations dictate that divers respect the cultural and historical significance of wrecks, ensuring that artifacts remain in their original context for future generations to study and appreciate.

While understanding the historical significance of the artifacts, their monetary value, and their physical condition are relevant factors, they do not supersede the necessity of adhering to local laws and ethical practices. Collecting artifacts without regard for these guidelines can result in the loss of important historical context and contribute to the degradation of underwater heritage sites.