Ivory and other organic materials are often used in jewelry, fine art, and weaponry. When considering pieces that are made with natural, organic materials, it is important to remember that the beauty of the material does not always determine its value. Historical significance and/or unique features of the material may also affect the price of a piece. For example, an insect preserved in amber may be quite expensive. Our artists work with many different organic materials including ivory, teeth, and petrified wood.
Mammoth ivory has been used for thousands of years, and it is very similar to elephant ivory. Because mammoths are extinct, we can use only petrified material or tusks found in permafrost. In most cases, the mammoth ivory is very fragile and needs to be stabilized by saturation with polymer compounds. The stabilizing agent fills the pores and cracks, which seals and protects the ivory from damage by moisture. Moisture in the air can cause swelling or warping.
There are also very strong types of ivory that do not require any stabilization. For example, shark or sperm whale teeth, walrus tusks, and similar organic materials are all types of ivory that remain strong even after thousands of years because they have a different structure and a protective layer of enamel. Even enamel, however, can be damaged from acidic or basic chemicals that can cause natural discoloration and fine cracks.
Mammoth teeth are often used as materials in jewelry. They are often agatized – a process in which some or all of the organic matter is replaced with Agate stone. Sometimes, petrified wood, shark teeth, or petrified shells and sea organisms may be used as a material. In most cases, these materials are agatized too.