Authenticating the authenticity of ivory can be a daunting task due to its uncanny resemblance to various synthetic materials. However, discerning genuine ivory from its imitations necessitates keen observation and an understanding of its unique characteristics. By carefully examining certain physical and chemical properties, you can unravel the true nature of the material in question and unravel its historical and cultural significance.
One primary distinction lies in the intricate patterns and textures that adorn authentic ivory. Genuine ivory exhibits a unique grain structure that is both visible and tactile. When held against the light, genuine ivory often reveals fine cross-hatching lines, known as Schreger lines, that intersect each other to form a distinctive “herringbone” or “basketweave” pattern. These patterns are absent in synthetic materials, providing a reliable indication of authenticity.
In addition to visual cues, the density and weight of the material can offer valuable insights. Genuine ivory possesses a remarkable heft and density that is noticeably different from lightweight imitations. It is also relatively warm to the touch compared to synthetic materials, which tend to feel cold and inert. These tactile qualities, coupled with the visual characteristics, provide a comprehensive approach to accurately identifying genuine ivory.
The Water Displacement Test
The water displacement test is one of the most reliable methods for determining whether an object is made of real ivory. This test is based on the fact that ivory has a higher density than water, while plastic or other imitation materials have a lower density. As a result, when an object made of ivory is placed in water, it will displace more water than an object of the same size made of a less dense material.
To perform the water displacement test, you will need the following materials:
- A glass of water
- A piece of ivory
- A graduated cylinder or other measuring device
First, fill the glass of water to the brim. Then, carefully place the piece of ivory in the water. Observe the water level in the glass. The water level will rise, indicating that the ivory has displaced some of the water.
Next, use the graduated cylinder to measure the amount of water that was displaced. The volume of water displaced is equal to the volume of the ivory. Finally, compare the volume of the ivory to the volume of a similar object made of a known material. If the volume of the ivory is greater than the volume of the comparison object, then it is likely that the ivory is real.
The water displacement test is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to determine whether an object is made of real ivory. However, it is important to note that this test is not foolproof. Some materials, such as bone or antler, can have a density that is similar to ivory. As a result, it is always best to consult with a qualified expert to ensure that an object is made of real ivory before making a purchase.
The Feel Test
Ivory has a distinctive feel that can help you distinguish it from other materials. Genuine ivory feels warm to the touch, while imitations like bone or plastic will feel cold or cool.
1. Temperature
Hold the ivory object in your hand for a few minutes to allow it to reach your body temperature. Genuine ivory should feel warm to the touch, while imitations like bone or plastic will remain cool or cold.
2. Smoothness
Run your finger across the surface of the ivory. Genuine ivory has a smooth, polished feel, while imitations may feel rough or grainy.
3. Weight
Weigh the ivory object in your hand. Genuine ivory is dense and heavy, while imitations like bone or plastic may feel lighter.
4. Hardness
Try to scratch the surface of the ivory with your fingernail. Genuine ivory is hard and will resist scratching, while imitations like bone or plastic may be easily scratched.
| Material | Weight | Hardness | Feel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Genuine Ivory | Dense and heavy | Hard, resists scratching | Warm to the touch |
| Bone | Lighter than ivory | Softer than ivory, can be scratched | Cool or cold to the touch |
| Plastic | Lightest of the three | Softest of the three, easily scratched | Cool or cold to the touch |
The Color and Grain
Real ivory is typically a creamy white color, although it can range in shade from almost pure white to a light yellow or pink. The color of ivory is determined by the age, diet, and environment of the animal from which it came. Younger animals tend to have whiter ivory, while older animals have a more yellow or pink tint. Animals that eat a diet rich in minerals have whiter ivory, while animals that eat a diet rich in plants have a more yellow or pink tint. Ivory from animals that live in warmer climates tends to be whiter than ivory from animals that live in cooler climates.
The grain of ivory refers to the small, parallel lines that run along its surface. The grain of ivory is caused by the way that the animal’s tusks or teeth grew. The grain of ivory can be used to identify the species of animal from which it came. For example, elephant ivory has a fine grain, while hippopotamus ivory has a coarser grain.
In addition to its color and grain, real ivory can also be identified by its weight and feel. Real ivory is dense and heavy, and it feels smooth and cool to the touch. Fake ivory is often made of plastic or resin, which is lighter and feels warmer to the touch.
Using a Magnifying Glass
Examine the ivory under a magnifying glass. Real ivory will have a fine, even grain. Fake ivory will often have a coarse, uneven grain. You may also be able to see small bubbles or other imperfections in the fake ivory.
Rubbing the Ivory
Rub the ivory with a soft cloth. Real ivory will feel smooth and cool to the touch. Fake ivory will often feel warm and sticky to the touch.
Weighing the Ivory
Weigh the ivory. Real ivory is dense and heavy. Fake ivory is often lighter.
| Characteristic | Real Ivory | Fake Ivory |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Creamy white, yellow, or pink | White, yellow, or pink |
| Grain | Fine, even | Coarse, uneven |
| Weight | Dense and heavy | Light |
| Feel | Smooth and cool | Warm and sticky |
Lines of Schreger
The Lines of Schreger, visible due to the tubular structure of the dentine, appear as random, short and dashed, and sometimes slightly curved, lines in a micrograph. The Lines of Schreger vary greatly from species to species. They tend to be parallel to the long axis of the tusk or tooth. This may be of help in differentiating between the ivory of the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) and the African elephant (Loxodonta africana). In the latter, the Lines of Schreger are more consistently parallel than in the former. The width of the Lines of Schreger, as well as their shape and direction, is almost invariable within a species.
An additional feature is provided by the Incremental Lines of Owen. These are sometimes visible as well as the Lines of Schreger and are concentric with the annulations of the tusk or tooth. Their presence is, however, much more variable than that of the Lines of Schreger. The Incremental Lines of Owen are slightly wavy and brown-stained.
| Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) | African elephant (Loxodonta africana) | |
|---|---|---|
| Lines of Schreger | Not always parallel to the long axis of the tusk | Mostly parallel to the long axis of the tusk |
| Incremental Lines of Owen | Not always visible | Not observed |
The Presence of Cracks or Flaws
Genuine ivory exhibits a unique surface texture with fine parallel striations or lines, creating a characteristic “hairline” pattern. Conversely, fake ivory may have a smooth, artificial appearance and lack these delicate striations.
Additionally, real ivory tends to develop hairline cracks or flaws over time due to natural aging and temperature fluctuations. These cracks, often referred to as “crazing,” are typically shallow, parallel, and consistent with the natural grain of the ivory.
In contrast, fake ivory may have more pronounced cracks or flaws that are irregular in shape and appear superficial, rather than ingrained within the material. These flaws may indicate manufacturing defects or the use of low-quality materials.
| Factor | Genuine Ivory | Fake Ivory |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Texture | Fine parallel striations (“hairline” pattern) | Smooth, artificial appearance |
| Cracks and Flaws | Hairline cracks or crazing; shallow, parallel, consistent with grain | Pronounced, irregular cracks; superficial, indicative of manufacturing defects |
The Oxidation Test
The oxidation test is often used to distinguish between ivory and plastic. When ivory is exposed to heat, it will produce a dark brown or black color. Plastic, on the other hand, will melt or burn. To perform the oxidation test, you will need:
- A piece of ivory or plastic
- A lighter or heat gun
Hold the ivory or plastic over the flame for a few seconds. If the material turns dark brown or black, it is ivory. If the material melts or burns, it is plastic. The reason for this difference is that ivory is made of organic material, which burns when exposed to heat. Plastic, on the other hand, is made of synthetic materials, which melt or burn when exposed to heat.
The oxidation test is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to tell if an object is made of ivory or plastic. However, it is important to note that the test is not always accurate. Some types of plastic can produce a similar color change to ivory when exposed to heat. Therefore, it is important to use the oxidation test in conjunction with other methods of identification to determine if an object is made of ivory or plastic.
The Oxidation Test Results
| Material | Result |
|---|---|
| Ivory | Dark brown or black color |
| Plastic | Melts or burns |
Examination by an Expert
The most definitive way to determine if an ivory item is genuine is to have it examined by an expert appraiser or a conservation scientist. They have the knowledge, experience, and specialized equipment to assess various characteristics of ivory, including:
- Grain and Density: Real ivory exhibits a distinctive grain pattern and density that can be detected through microscopic examination.
- Color and Translucency: Genuine ivory typically has a creamy white or yellowish color and a characteristic translucence.
- Lines of Schreger: These are microscopic lines that run perpendicular to the ivory’s central axis, visible only under a high-powered microscope.
- Age and Provenance: Experts can analyze the item’s age, condition, and provenance to determine its authenticity.
- Origin: Using techniques like isotope analysis, experts can identify the geographical origin of ivory, distinguishing between Asian and African elephants.
- Chemical Composition: Advanced spectroscopic techniques can detect the chemical composition of ivory, which can help differentiate between real ivory and substitutes.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Genuine ivory reacts differently to temperature changes compared to imitations, providing another clue for identification.
- Comparative Analysis: Experts may compare the item with known genuine ivory samples to confirm its authenticity.
- Documentation and Authentication: Appraisers often provide written certifications or authentication reports.
- Certification: Some organizations offer certification programs for ivory items, which can enhance the assurance of genuineness.
It’s crucial to choose a reputable and experienced expert for accurate evaluation. They can provide impartial and reliable conclusions, ensuring peace of mind when purchasing or handling ivory items.
How to Tell If It’s Real Ivory
Ivory, a valuable and sought-after material, is often used in the creation of decorative objects, jewelry, and other items. However, due to the rise in poaching and the illegal ivory trade, it is important to be able to identify real ivory from its synthetic or imitation counterparts.
There are several ways to determine the authenticity of ivory. One of the most reliable methods involves examining the cross-section of the ivory piece. Real ivory exhibits a unique “Schreger line” pattern, a series of fine lines that appear when the ivory is viewed under magnification. This pattern is not present in synthetic or imitation ivory.
Another way to distinguish real ivory is by its weight and density. Ivory is a heavy and dense material, and it will feel cold to the touch. Imitation ivory, on the other hand, tends to be lighter and less dense.
Additionally, ivory exhibits certain optical properties. Real ivory appears translucent when held up to the light, while imitation ivory typically appears opaque. Furthermore, ivory has a unique smell that can be used to identify it. Real ivory emits a faint, musty odor, whereas synthetic ivory has a more plastic-like smell.
By carefully examining these characteristics, it is possible to determine whether an ivory piece is real or fake. It is important to note that the identification of ivory requires experience and training, and it is always advisable to consult an expert if you have any doubts about the authenticity of an ivory item.
People Also Ask
How can I tell if ivory is real by burning it?
Burning ivory is not a reliable method for determining its authenticity. Both real and synthetic ivory can produce similar odors when burned.
Is real ivory cold to the touch?
Yes, real ivory is heavy and dense, and it will feel cold to the touch.
How can I tell if ivory is bone or plastic?
Bone, when burned, produces a “burnt hair” odor, while plastic produces a “chemical” odor. Additionally, bone has a rougher texture compared to smooth plastic.
