Omar Khalid
Ivory is a valuable material that has been used for centuries in antiques, jewellery, and art. However, due to ethical concerns and regulations, it is important to be able to distinguish ivory from plastic imitations. Several techniques can be used to identify genuine ivory, including visual inspection, tactile examination, and the use of specialised equipment. One of the key visual indicators of genuine ivory is the presence of Schreger lines, which are unique patterns of crosshatching found in elephant tusks. Additionally, ivory often exhibits a distinct grain pattern, with circular rings similar to those found in trees. By using tools such as magnification loops, microscopes, and long-wave black lights, these patterns can be more easily observed. Tactile examinations involve feeling for a gritty texture, which is characteristic of ivory, as well as performing non-invasive tests such as the tap test or comparing the weight of the material to that of known plastics. While some destructive tests, like the hot pin test, can be used as a last resort, it is generally recommended to prioritise non-invasive methods to preserve the integrity of the piece in question.
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What You'll Learn
Use a microscope or magnifying glass to look for grain patterns
To identify ivory from plastic, you can use a microscope or a magnifying glass to look for grain patterns. This method is useful for distinguishing ivory from plastic, bone, glued-together ivory dust, and ivory nuts (the hard cellulose kernels from Tagua palms).
Firstly, place the object on a flat surface. If you are using a handheld magnifying glass, hold it a few inches away from the object. Move the magnifying glass closer until the details come into focus and you are able to see the markings on the piece. If you are using a microscope, set it up according to the instructions and focus the lens until the details on the piece become sharp and clear.
Once you can see the surface clearly, examine it for pores or lines. If the surface is covered with pores (small holes), it is likely made of bone. If there are lines on the surface, it is likely ivory. These lines can appear in a variety of ways, including straight, cross-hatched, or circular marks.
However, it is important to note that grain alone does not guarantee a piece is ivory. Genuine ivory has random grain patterns without any noticeable repeating patterns. On the other hand, artificial ivory, such as celluloid, usually has prominent grains with nearly perfect parallel lines and definite repeating patterns. The presence of a repeating pattern with uniform, even lines is almost always a sign of artificial ivory.
One unique pattern to look for is Schreger Lines, which are rows of microscopic tubes that form crosshatching in cross-sections of elephant tusks. These lines are a definitive indicator of elephant ivory and have never been duplicated in artificial plastics or resins. However, they may not always be visible, depending on how the ivory was cut.
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Weigh the object
Weighing an object can be a good indicator of whether it is made of ivory or plastic. Bone and ivory can be similar in appearance, weight, and feel, but ivory is typically denser and heavier than bone. Therefore, if an object is denser and heavier than a similar-sized piece of bone, it may be ivory. However, it is important to note that this is not a definitive test, as the weight of ivory and bone can vary depending on factors such as the animal source and the specific type of bone or ivory.
When comparing the weight of ivory and plastic, it is important to consider the type of plastic. Some plastics, such as cellulose nitrate, can be dense and heavy, similar to ivory. However, many other types of plastic are lighter in weight than ivory. Therefore, if an object is significantly lighter than a similar-sized piece of ivory, it is likely made of plastic.
To accurately determine the weight of an object, it is recommended to use a precise scale. This will allow you to measure the weight in grams or ounces, depending on your preference. Place the object on the scale and note its weight. If you have access to a similar object made of a known material, such as bone or plastic, compare the weights of the two objects. This relative comparison can provide valuable insight into the material of the object in question.
It is worth mentioning that the weight of an object can be influenced by its size and density. A larger object may naturally weigh more, but that does not necessarily indicate that it is made of ivory. Therefore, it is important to consider the density of the object as well. Ivory tends to have a higher density than many types of plastic, so a relatively heavy object with a small volume may be an indicator of ivory.
While weighing an object can provide valuable information, it should not be the only test used to identify ivory. A combination of tests, such as visual inspection, texture analysis, and other scientific methods, should be employed to make a more accurate judgment. Additionally, if you have any doubts or concerns, it is always best to seek the expertise of a professional appraiser or authenticator who can provide a definitive conclusion.
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Use a hot pin
The hot pin test has been used to distinguish plastic from ivory for as long as plastic has been made to mimic ivory. However, it is worth noting that this test can char and damage the piece being tested, so it should only be used as a last resort.
To perform the test, take a needle or straight pin and heat the tip with a lighter. Then, find an inconspicuous part of the item in question and touch the hot pin to it. If the item is plastic or celluloid, the material will start to melt. If it is ivory, it will give off a smell akin to burning hair.
It is important to note that this test may not be necessary at all. Ivory has a distinctive appearance, grain, and texture that can often be identified by visual inspection or by holding the item in your hands. Ivory is typically creamy-coloured or off-white, with a slightly gritty feel. It also has circular rings, similar to the rings found in a tree, that can often be seen with the naked eye. Plastic, on the other hand, is usually lighter in weight and may have a seam that is detectable along the surface of a moulded piece.
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Examine with long-wave black light
When examining a specimen to determine if it is ivory or plastic, one of the tests that can be performed is to examine it under long-wave black light. This test can be performed using a black lightbulb or a black light flashlight, preferably in a room with little natural light.
Under long-wave black light, genuine ivory will appear white, while plastic will absorb light and appear dull blue. However, it is important to note that bone and shell have a similar fluorescence to ivory and will also appear white under black light. Vegetable ivory, on the other hand, will appear slightly orange or warmer in tone. Therefore, while black light examination can help eliminate artificial materials, it cannot alone prove that a specimen is ivory. Multiple tests, such as examining the grain and Schreger lines, are necessary to make an accurate judgement.
To perform the black light test, screw the black lightbulb into a lamp, or use a black light flashlight. Turn off any other lights to make the room as dark as possible. With only the black light turned on, examine the specimen to assess its colour.
It is important to note that expertise and experience are crucial for making precise identifications, especially when distinguishing between materials with subtle differences. Additionally, while black light examination can be a useful tool, it may not always be conclusive. Other factors such as manufacturing techniques, design, provenance, and materials used in construction should also be considered when evaluating specimens.
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Check for seams
Checking for seams is one of the ways to distinguish ivory from plastic. Plastic items often have seams that can be detected by touch or sight. On the other hand, genuine ivory carvings are typically made from a single piece of solid ivory, so you are unlikely to find seams in genuine ivory.
When examining an object for seams, use your sense of touch. Run your fingers over the surface of the object to feel for any ridges or lines that might indicate the presence of a seam. Plastic items often have a distinct seam that can be felt. Ivory, on the other hand, tends to have a smooth surface without noticeable seams.
You can also use your eyes to look for seams. Examine the object closely, paying attention to any lines or ridges that might indicate a seam. A magnifying lens can be helpful for this step, as it will allow you to see finer details. Move the magnifying lens over the surface of the object, looking for any indications of a seam.
It is important to note that some ivory carvings may have seams if they are made from multiple pieces of ivory joined together. However, this is less common than plastic items with seams. If you do notice a seam on an object, it is more likely to be plastic than ivory.
Additionally, be aware of the grain pattern when examining an object for seams. Natural ivory has a random grain pattern without any noticeable repeating patterns. In contrast, plastic and other artificial ivories often have a definite repeating pattern of uniform, even lines. The presence of a repeating grain pattern is a strong indicator of artificial ivory.
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Frequently asked questions
Ivory has rings of growth, much like a tree. You can also look and feel for the seam that is often detectable in a piece of moulded plastic.
Plastic is non-descript upon magnification, but ivory can have cross-hatches on its surface. Ivory also feels a little gritty, whereas plastic is usually smooth.
Lightly tap the object against your teeth. Ivory and bone make a distinct noise compared to celluloid. Plastic sounds more "plasticky".
You can use a magnification loop or a microscope to inspect the surface structure of the object. You can also use a hot pin test, but this may damage the object. Alternatively, examine the object under a long-wave black light—most plastics fluoresce blue or blue/white, while ivory usually fluoresces white.
