What is Ivory?
Ivory, in its most basic definition, is the hard, white, and opaque substance that forms the tusks and teeth of certain mammals, primarily elephants, but also walruses, hippopotamuses, narwhals, and other species. While elephant ivory is perhaps the most well-known, the term encompasses a variety of sources, each with its unique characteristics. The structure and properties of ivory make it ideal for carving and polishing. Its density gives it a substantial feel, and its intricate patterns, created by the internal grain, add to its aesthetic appeal. Historically, ivory has been used for everything from intricate carvings, delicate jewelry, and piano keys to billiard balls. The value placed on ivory stems not only from its beauty but also from its scarcity and the skill required to transform it into works of art.
Why Is It Important to Identify Real Ivory?
Beyond the aesthetic appreciation, the ability to accurately identify real ivory is paramount for several critical reasons. The foremost concern is the conservation of the animals from which ivory originates. The illegal ivory trade, fueled by demand, has decimated elephant populations and threatens the survival of other species. By knowing how to differentiate between real ivory and imitation materials, potential buyers can avoid inadvertently supporting the illegal trade and contributing to the decline of these magnificent creatures.
Furthermore, the ownership of real ivory is increasingly subject to legal restrictions. Many countries have strict laws and regulations governing the import, export, and sale of ivory. Understanding the authenticity of a piece is crucial to avoid violating these laws, which can result in hefty fines, seizure of the item, or even criminal charges. If you are considering purchasing an item that you believe to be ivory, familiarize yourself with the local laws in your area as well as the laws and regulations of the country of origin.
Moreover, knowing how to recognize real ivory allows you to protect yourself from being deceived. The market is rife with imitations, ranging from bone and plastic to composite materials, all designed to mimic the appearance of ivory. These imitations may not be inherently valuable and might even be of poor quality. Being able to identify the real thing ensures that you are making an informed purchase and paying a fair price for the actual material.
Color and Appearance: Unraveling the Initial Clues
The initial visual assessment is a crucial first step in the process of identifying real ivory. Examining the color and appearance of a suspected ivory object can provide valuable clues. Real ivory generally exhibits a creamy white to yellowish hue, although this can vary. This color is often the result of the mineral composition of the material, its age, and the environmental factors it has been exposed to over time. Older ivory often yellows due to oxidation, which can also manifest as stains or discoloration. The color can vary depending on the source of the ivory and the conditions in which it was kept.
Keep in mind that the color of ivory is not a definitive indicator of authenticity. It can be influenced by a number of factors, including the source animal, age, and environmental exposure. Avoid making a final judgment based solely on color. Instead, compare the color of the potential ivory object with known examples of real ivory.
Surface Texture: Delving Deeper into the Details
Beyond the color, the surface texture of an object purported to be ivory provides another important area of examination. Real ivory boasts a unique texture. It is generally smooth to the touch, yet it often displays subtle imperfections and variations, such as tiny pores or minuscule cracks. These imperfections are inherent to the natural composition of the material and are part of what gives genuine ivory its character.
One of the most important characteristics to look for on the surface of real ivory is the presence of “grain” or “Schreger lines”. These are the intersecting lines that create a distinctive pattern on the surface of ivory. The Schreger lines are created by the alternating bands of growth in the ivory. The angles of these lines, as well as the fineness of the grain, can provide information regarding the source of the ivory. The angle of the Schreger lines is particularly important, as it can help distinguish between elephant and other sources, and can even sometimes indicate if the item came from an older or more recently deceased animal.
The careful observation of Schreger lines is very significant because they are generally absent in the imitations. Their presence, combined with the characteristic feel of the surface, adds weight to the claim of authenticity. Be meticulous and thorough, and consider using a magnifying glass to see the subtle details.
Weight and Feel: Understanding the Substance
Real ivory possesses a distinctive density, leading to a sense of weight and substance. The object should feel noticeably heavy for its size. Comparing the weight of the object in question with items of a similar size made from other materials can be a helpful comparison. If the item feels too light, there is a high chance it is not made of real ivory.
Furthermore, the texture of ivory has a distinctive feel. Genuine ivory is cool to the touch, although this sensation can be affected by the ambient temperature. By noting the weight and how the surface feels, you are establishing a basic benchmark for the potential ivory piece.
Schreger Lines: The Definitive Test for Authenticity
The Schreger lines are perhaps the most definitive characteristic of authentic ivory. These intersecting lines, which are visible on the surface or in a cross-section of the material, form a distinctive pattern. The angle and pattern of these lines can provide strong evidence for the origin of the ivory, often helping to differentiate between different species, for example, elephants and mammoths.
To observe Schreger lines, you may need to magnify the surface of the object using a magnifying glass, a jeweler’s loupe, or a microscope. You are looking for a series of crossing lines that appear as a series of shallow arcs.
When examining the Schreger lines, look for the angle at which these lines intersect. In elephant ivory, the lines typically form an angle greater than 115 degrees. In mammoth ivory, the angles are typically less than 90 degrees.
Professional Appraisal and Testing: Seeking Expert Opinions
If you are unsure about the authenticity of an ivory object or if the piece is of significant value, it is strongly recommended to seek a professional appraisal. Experienced appraisers specialize in identifying antique and vintage items. They have the knowledge and expertise to carefully assess the characteristics of the object, including its color, texture, weight, and Schreger lines, and compare them to established examples of real ivory.
In addition to visual inspection, professional appraisers might use advanced testing methods to confirm authenticity. Non-destructive methods, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, can provide valuable information about the elemental composition of the material.
Common Imitations and How to Spot Them
Bone is a frequently encountered imitation of ivory. While bone shares a similar color and general appearance, several differences can help distinguish it from real ivory. Bone has a more porous structure, and its grain is typically less regular. The color is also often less creamy and more translucent.
Plastic and resin are common substitutes for ivory. These artificial materials can be molded into a variety of shapes and often mimic the color and texture of ivory. However, there are telltale signs that reveal their synthetic origins. Plastic is typically lightweight and feels cold to the touch. Under close examination, the surface often reveals a perfectly uniform appearance, lacking the subtle variations and imperfections present in genuine ivory.
Tagua nuts are also commonly used as an ivory substitute. They are often used for carving and can have a similar appearance. However, tagua nuts are softer than ivory and have a more porous structure. The grain is different, and the color tends to be more uniform.
Legal and Ethical Considerations: A Responsibility to Know
As previously mentioned, many regions have strict laws governing the import, export, and sale of ivory. Before acquiring any object believed to be ivory, it is crucial to understand and adhere to the applicable laws. Familiarize yourself with the laws in your local area, as well as the laws of the country of origin of the object.
The ethical implications surrounding the ivory trade must also be considered. Supporting the purchase of ivory can contribute to the demand for ivory and put pressure on already threatened populations of elephants and other ivory-yielding animals. By choosing to avoid the purchase of ivory, you are helping to protect these animals and support conservation efforts.
Conclusion: Navigating the World of Ivory with Confidence
Identifying real ivory requires a combination of observation, knowledge, and careful analysis. By understanding the characteristics of genuine ivory, you can distinguish it from its many imitations and make informed purchasing decisions. Examining the color, texture, weight, and grain of the object, especially paying close attention to the Schreger lines, will provide significant insights into its authenticity. It is important to learn the laws regarding the purchase and sale of ivory. If you are uncertain, always consult a professional appraiser. By being a careful and well-informed consumer, you can help safeguard the future of these magnificent creatures. Be mindful that the more informed you are, the more you can make an ethical choice, and the better you can protect yourself.
