Ivory

Ivory is a material obtained from tusks or teeth of animals like elephants, hippopotamus, walrus, mammoth and narwhal. However, ivory is extensively used as a synonym for elephant’s tusks. This material is opaque and whitish yellow in colour. The material has been traditionally used to make tools, ornaments and weapons. It has also become a popular part of furniture, transportation and religious and mystic ceremonies.

Ivory is present all around the world right from eastern countries like Thailand, Vietnam and India to western countries especially, European countries. The wide use of ivory during Victorian era can be proved by the fact that it was also used in miniature paintings, cigarette holders, accessories and others. The Khufu, made from ivory for the builder of the Great Pyramid, is considered to be a masterpiece. The presence of ivory can be also witnessed in the ancient tombs of Chinese rulers. Followers of Christianity have also popularly used ivory since the Roman era.

The intricate carving on ivory makes it a special collectible. The material is carved using sharp tools either using a machine or by hands. Today, one can see the use of ivory in piano keys, bagpipes, buttons, chess sets and other ornamental items. Ivory usage is banned to eliminate animal hunting/poaching which resulted in the extinction of several species. Many countries have banned the usage of ivory, making it a rare and expensive commodity. To substitute ivory, manufacturers have started using synthetic materials such as plastic that resembles ivory to a very large extent.