How do you test for pure ivory?
The test consists of heating up the point of a needle until it’s red-hot and then pricking what you believe is your ivory carving. If the needle goes in, it’s plastic; if not, it’s probably ivory, or at least bone.
Does real ivory yellow with age?
Ivory is wonderful material for antique pieces although it quickly absorbs moisture making it require special care. With time, ivory darkens or turns yellow developing a patina coloring surface. This color change indicates ivory age with a subsequent effect on value.
What does aged ivory look like?
Genuine ivory usually fluoresces white but this can vary depending on whether the ivory has a patina. Most natural old patinas fluoresce dull yellow or brown. Be very suspicious of any brightly colored fluorescence such as yellow as this indicates artificial aging in dung, urine or animal fats.
Do you know what kind of Ivory you are dealing with?
Knowing the kind of ivory you’re dealing with is now extremely important due to the laws banning the sales of whale ivories. In their book Identification Guide for Ivory and Ivory Substitutes, the National Fish & Wildlife Forensics Laboratory recommends a three step approach to the identification of ivory and ivory imitations.
Why is it illegal to buy ivory from an elephant?
Ivory is made from the tusks and teeth of elephants, whales and other animals. It is highly valuable, in part because it is now illegal to procure ivory from some sources, such as elephants.
Are there any imitations of 19th century ivory?
As a result, there are a tremendous number of ivory look-alike objects in the market today. These include present day fakes to 19th century ivory substitutes like celluloid. Ivory imitations and fakes have dramatically increased since the mid-1970s.
Can a family heirloom be sold with ivory?
Personal possession is OK, because a family heirloom can pass down within the family. This also applies if you have a vintage musical instrument that has ivory pieces or components. These items were made years ago, passed down in the family and aren’t a threat or a danger to today’s elephants. Can Estate Ivory Items Be Sold Within State Lines?
How old can a piece of Ivory be?
The novice seller, however, may confuse it with plastic or other substances used over time to simulate ivory such as bone or celluloid. For now, keep any documentation you have showing that an item made of ivory is more than 100 years old with the piece.
How old do you have to be to sell African elephant ivory?
In order to be eligible for legal sale across state lines, an item containing African-elephant ivory must satisfy the laws of the relevant states and EITHER be an antique, as defined the ESA: The item has not been repaired or modified with ivory, or any other part of a federally protected species since 1973; The item is at least 100 years old;
What kind of antiques are exempt from ivory ban?
Preexisting items manufactured with ivory such as musical instruments used in orchestras, furniture and items such as firearms containing fewer than 200 grams are exempt. Antiques at least a century old are also exempt, but owners must prove an artifact’s age through a professional appraisal or some other document that can be verified.”
Which is better African ivory or Asian ivory?
Yes, there is a difference! The African Ivory has always been more preferred among collectors. Almost all older ivory items of higher quality are made out of African ivory. Many items that were imported from India also originated in Africa but entered the U.S. as Asian Ivory.
