What is Made From Ivory?
Ivory is a living substance formed from a combination of inorganic and organic components. It contains a fibrous protein called collagen and mineral salts such as calcium phosphate, magnesium, and carbonate. It may contain up to 10 percent water. Skin derivatives are made from keratin, and they are considered to be ivory substitutes.
While elephant tusks are the most famous source of ivory, other animals have also provided ivory. The tusks of hippopotamus, walrus, killer whale, and warthog have all been used to create pieces of ivory. Palm nuts, a type of wood, has also been used as an ivory substitute in the past.
Ivory carvings can be traced back to as early as 1000 BC. The Old Testament records that King Solomon ordered his throne to be made of ivory. It was also valued by the ancient Greeks and Romans. It was a sign of wealth and status. In the 1980s, Japan was the largest consumer of ivory. During this time, it was widely used to carve personal signature stamps, known as hankos. Because seals are a necessity for business transactions, ivory seals were popular symbols of high social standing.
Although ivory is a natural material, there are certain types of fungi and insects that can damage the material. Carpet beetles, clothes moths, and other insects commonly attack horn and ivory. While these insects are rare, they can cause serious damage to a piece of ivory. However, you can prevent infestations by taking steps to protect your horn or ivory from damage.
Genuine ivory is irregularly shaped and has a grain pattern. The grain pattern is different in each species, and fading can obscure this pattern. Celluloid, the material used for artificial ivory, lacks grain. Unlike natural ivory, artificial ivory grain shows a definite repeating pattern. In addition, artificial ivory does not have pores or blood vessels, making it hard to identify.
Ivory is produced from various species of animals, but in Canada, the two most commonly used species are walrus and elephant. Walrus ivory is characterized by a marbled core, while elephant ivory is characterized by a smooth, creamy white layer. Most Inuit carvings are made from walrus ivory.
The National Geographic Society and GlobeScan recently conducted an international survey to understand the reasons behind the continued demand for ivory. The research found that people buy ivory based on perceived social status and wealth. For example, young fashionistas in the low to middle-income brackets see ivory as a means of projecting a status image and a sense of wealth.
Ivory comes from the teeth of a number of different mammals. Elephant tusks have three layers, a hard enamel layer on the outside, and a softer material called dentin underneath. Tusks serve many functions, including protecting the trunk, which is valuable for breathing and eating. They also have decorative uses.
