How can you tell fake ivory?
Ivory is a highly valuable and highly sought-after material, made from the tusks and teeth of elephants, as well as other animals like hippopotamus, warthogs, and mammoths. As a result, there is a thriving industry of fake or artificial ivory products on the market. Unfortunately, some fake ivory items may be difficult to distinguish from the real thing, as they are designed to closely mimic the texture, weight, and appearance of natural ivory. Therefore, it is essential to learn how to identify and avoid purchasing fake ivory to ensure the authenticity and legitimacy of ivory products.
Test #1: Conduct a Quick Visual Inspection
Before investing in an ivory product, conduct a quick visual inspection to look for any glaring inconsistencies. Some fake ivories may be overly processed, resulting in an unrealistic sheen or shine that is not natural. Alternatively, some fakes may have an artificial or irregular texture that deviates from the smooth, porous finish of genuine ivory.
• Check the color: Genuine ivory often has a warm, beige-like hue, while artificial ivories may have a more consistent or uniform color.
Test #2: Smell the Product
In many cases, genuine ivory has a mild, subtle scent that is often not present in fake ivories. This can be because fake ivories are frequently made from low-quality synthetic materials that are odor-free.
• Take a sniff: Bring the item close to your nose and take a light sniff to see if it has an unusual or synthetic scent. If it smells strongly, it may not be natural ivory.
Test #3: Hold the Item
Genuine ivory products often have a specific feel or weight to them, which can be difficult to replicate with synthetic materials.
• Compare weights: Hold the product in both hands and weigh it; genuine ivory should have a substantial, satisfying weight.
• Note the flexibility: Genuine ivory is somewhat flexible, allowing it to bend slightly before returning to its original shape. Synthetic ivories tend to feel stiff or inflexible.
• Evaluate the handling: Hold the item gingerly, looking for an unusual or forced texture when handling it; genuine ivory should feel organic and well-balanced in your hand.
Test #4: Examine the Tusk
Real ivory teeth and tusks often show signs of age, patina, or wear; fake ivories tend to be smooth, consistent, and lacking any distinguishing signs of aging or use. Look for unique markings or patterns on the tusk, such as:
• Check the tip: Genuine ivory tends to form a rounded, slightly blunted tip when aged naturally.
• Look for cracks: Minor cracks, fissures, or age lines can attest to genuine ivory’s authentic nature. Fake ivories are frequently smooth and uninterrupted.
• Evaluate the shape: Genuine ivory has a gentle, organic curvature; some fake ivories may look too uniform, uniform or artificial.
Test #5: Obtain Professional Assessment
If in doubt or unsure about an ivory item’s authenticity, consult an expert or trusted professional conservator, collector, or appraiser. Experienced professionals can spot subtle defects, inconsistencies, or artifices not easily recognized by the casual observer. They can inspect the material, examine markings, inspect the tusk, analyze the weight and flexibility, and provide guidance on authenticating the piece.
The Table above (test comparison) highlights key differences to look for:
| Fake/Real | Fake Ivories | Genuine Ivories | Fake Ivories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Uniform, uniform color, no patina | Varied, gradual, wear, patina | Uneven, dull, aging |
| Odor | Odorless | Fresh, earthy, with a hint of sweat and age | |
| Handling | Stiff, unbalanced, forced, and resistant | Flexible, smooth, organic, & natural-weighted | Not present |
| Tusk | Crack-free, artificial, lack of aging | Organic, aged | |
| Crack-free, |
Remember: Authenticating Genuine Ivory is Difficult (and sometimes almost impossible)! The best way is to stay informed, familiarize yourself with the common signs, and consult expert advice as needed. This guide presents a comprehensive method for analyzing and identifying ivory products’ authenticity. As always, it is better to remain cautious and conduct a proper evaluation before committing to purchase genuine ivory. By understanding what to look for and implementing these tests, you’ll be better equipped to uncover the truth and protect both yourself and your investments