The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including where the ivory is being sold and the specific laws and regulations that apply in that jurisdiction. However, in general, it is becoming increasingly difficult and risky to sell pre-1947 ivory due to international and national laws aimed at protecting endangered species.
Under international law, the trade in ivory is regulated by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). CITES was established in 1975 to prevent the over-exploitation of wild animals and plants, including elephants. The treaty has been signed by over 180 countries, including major ivory producers such as China, Thailand, and the African nations hardest hit by poaching.
CITES regulates the trade in ivory through a system of permits and certificates designed to ensure that only legally obtained ivory is traded. The trade in elephant ivory has been banned altogether since 1989, with a few notable exceptions. One such exception is for pre-Convention ivory, or ivory harvested before the CITES treaty was established in 1975.
Pre-Convention ivory is subject to a strict set of regulations, and may only be traded if it can be proven that it was legally acquired before the ban on ivory trade went into effect.
In addition to international law, many countries have their own national laws aimed at protecting endangered species and regulating the trade in ivory. In the United States, for example, the sale of ivory or ivory products is generally prohibited unless certain conditions are met. Specifically, ivory products must either have been legally imported before the 1989 trade ban or be part of an antique that is at least 100 years old and contains less than 50% ivory by weight.
It’s important to note that the legality of selling pre-1947 ivory may vary widely from country to country, and even within different regions of the same country. In many jurisdictions, the sale of any ivory is prohibited outright, regardless of its age or source. Therefore, anyone considering the sale of pre-1947 ivory should do their homework and be sure they are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Otherwise, they could face serious legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of their merchandise.
When was selling ivory illegal?
Selling ivory was not illegal until the late 20th century when concerns about the devastating impact of poaching on elephant populations led to international efforts to regulate trade in ivory. In 1975, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) was adopted, which restricted the international trade of ivory by placing elephants on its Appendix I list, which includes species that are threatened with extinction and prohibited international commercial trade.
However, the ban was not strictly enforced, and illegal ivory trade continued to thrive, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s, when the demand for ivory in Asia increased. As a result, in 1989, the CITES conference adopted a total ban on international commercial ivory trade, with some exceptions for traditional and cultural uses, and allowed countries with significant elephant populations to sell a one-time stockpile of ivory.
The ban on ivory trade has been controversial since its implementation, with some arguing that it unfairly penalizes African countries that rely on the sale of ivory to generate revenue and that the ban has led to an increase in poaching. In recent years, some countries have sought to loosen the restrictions on ivory trade, while others have strengthened their laws and enforcement efforts to combat poaching and the illegal ivory trade.
Today, the trade in ivory is still illegal in many countries, and much work remains to be done to protect elephants and other endangered species from poaching and habitat destruction.
How do I know if ivory is legal?
One way to identify legal ivory is to look for any documentation accompanying the item. Most legal ivory items will have a certificate of authenticity or an appraisal that lists the source and age of the ivory. It is also important to verify that the document is legitimate and has not been fabricated.
Another way to determine the legality of ivory is to examine the texture and color of the item. Elephant ivory has a distinctive texture that is easily recognizable. It is also heavily regulated, and there are strict international laws governing its import, export, and sale. Importantly, new items made from ivory of any species are almost certainly illegal.
Legal ivory, on the other hand, is commonly found in antique items that predate the regulations of the ivory trade. However, it is important to remember that there are still restrictions on the sale and possession of antique ivory, and you must obtain proper permits and documentation to legally sell or purchase these items.
To determine the legality of ivory, verify the origin and age of the item, check for accompanying documentation, and recognize the distinctive texture of elephant ivory. However, as previously stated, the trade of ivory is highly discouraged as it heavily contributes to animal cruelty and endangers the existence of certain species.
Is owning old ivory illegal?
Yes, owning old ivory is illegal in many places around the world. This is because the demand for ivory has led to the slaughter of countless elephants, causing their populations to decline rapidly. In many countries, owning ivory is a criminal offense and anyone caught with it could face severe penalties, including hefty fines and jail time.
In the United States, for example, it is illegal to trade ivory, including antiques, across state lines without proper documentation, and ivory imported after 1990 is completely banned. Similar laws have been enacted in other countries, such as China, where the government instituted a total ban on the ivory trade in 2017.
Furthermore, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has also designated elephants as an endangered species, with strict regulations on the trade of ivory. The goal of these laws is to protect elephants, ensuring that they have a future in the wild rather than being hunted to extinction for their ivory.
Despite the bans and regulations, illegal ivory trade continues to thrive due to the high market price of ivory. It is therefore crucial for people to understand the illegal nature of owning ivory and the detrimental impact of their actions towards elephant populations. In addition, governments must enforce such laws strictly to deter people from engaging in illegal ivory trade, ultimately putting an end to this brutal industry once and for all.
Does real ivory turn yellow?
Yes, real ivory does turn yellow over time. This happens due to a variety of reasons, but the most common factor is exposure to light and air. When ivory is exposed to light, it undergoes a process of oxidation, which causes the ivory to turn yellow. Similarly, when ivory is exposed to air, the moisture in the air causes the ivory to slowly change color.
Another factor that can cause ivory to turn yellow is the natural aging process. As ivory ages, its color gradually changes, and it becomes yellow-tinged. This is a natural process that happens over time, and there is little that can be done to prevent it.
In addition to these factors, ivory can also be affected by external elements such as pollution, dirt, grease, and oil. When these elements come in contact with ivory, they can cause the ivory to change color and become yellow.
It is common for real ivory to turn yellow, and it should not be seen as a defect or flaw. It is simply a natural part of the aging process and adds character and uniqueness to the ivory. However, it is important to note that the sale of ivory is illegal in many countries due to the harm caused to elephants and other animals, so it is recommended to avoid purchasing or trading ivory.
What does pure ivory look like?
Pure ivory is a creamy white color with a slightly yellowish tint. It has a smooth and polished appearance, with a lustrous and translucent quality that reflects the light. The texture of ivory is smooth and hard, with a fine-grained structure that gives it a silky and refined appearance. The surface of ivory is often decorated with intricate carvings, etchings, or inlays, that display the skilled artistry of the craftsman.
The natural variations in color and texture of ivory give it a unique and individual character, making each piece of ivory a work of art in its own right. It is important to note that ivory is derived from the tusks of elephants, and the sale and purchase of ivory products are banned in many countries due to conservation concerns.
Does real ivory feel like plastic?
Ivory is a hard, dense, and smooth material that comes from the tusks of elephants or other animals like walrus, hippopotamus, or narwhal. It has a unique texture characterized by tiny lines or “grains” called Schreger lines that intersect at certain angles and form distinctive patterns on the surface.
This characteristic texture is absent in plastic, which is a man-made material manufactured from a wide range of chemical compounds. Plastic can have a smooth or rough texture depending on its manufacturing process and intended usage, but it doesn’t resemble the grainy and natural touch of ivory. Therefore, it’s important to understand the difference between real ivory and plastic to make informed decisions regarding their usage and conservation.
Additionally, ivory trade is illegal in many countries due to its impact on animal populations, and alternatives like synthetic materials or natural substitutes like bone, wood, or stone can provide similar looks and textures without harming wildlife.
What is considered antique ivory?
Antique ivory is any ivory that is over 100 years old and comes from an animal that is now considered an endangered species. Ivory is a dense, hard material that is highly valued for its beauty and workability, making it a popular material for carvings, sculpture, and art objects throughout history.
However, the demand for ivory has led to over-harvesting of elephant and other animal populations, causing many species to become endangered or nearly extinct. Because of this, the international trade in ivory is prohibited, and antique ivory is subject to strict regulation and documentation in order to prevent its illegal trade.
In general, antique ivory is valued for its age, rarity, and quality of workmanship. It can come in many forms, from ornate carved figurines and jewelry to utilitarian objects like buttons and combs. The value of antique ivory can vary widely depending on the item’s age, provenance, and condition, as well as the quality of the ivory itself.
However, because of the ethical considerations around the trade in ivory and the risk of illegal trafficking, many countries and organizations have called for a complete ban on the sale and purchase of all ivory, regardless of its age or history.
How can you tell if ivory is antique?
Determining whether ivory is antique requires close observation and careful examination of various aspects of the item. While many people may think that identifying antique ivory is an easy task, there are several factors that need to be considered to determine its age and authenticity.
Firstly, one needs to consider the color of the ivory. Antique ivory often achieves a warm, yellowish tone as it ages, particularly when exposed to sunlight, while newer ivory is whiter in color. It is important to consider the element of patina, which is the natural discoloration that occurs with age.
Genuine antique ivory will have an even, consistent coloration while a recent carving will bear a pristine, almost artificial appearance.
Another factor to consider when determining whether ivory is antique is the texture of the material. Over time, ivory will develop a particular texture and patina that make it’s easy to distinguish from newer ivory. Antique ivory feels warm to the touch and has a smooth, almost velvety texture. In contrast, modern ivory feels cool and slick to the touch with a shinier finish.
Also, the carvings on the ivory itself can help to establish its age. Antique ivory figurines or objects are often intricately detailed, with signs of craftsmanship and age in the scrolling, lines and depressions of the ivory surface. An experienced collector, art historian or appraiser may recognize signs of handmade tools or techniques in the texture, composition and design.
Lastly, one may need to consider the documentation that comes with the item. If you have acquired an ivory object with a history of manufacture and provenance, such as paperwork, previous ownership, or items passed down through a family, it can act as proof of age and authenticity.
Determining whether ivory is antique requires knowledge, experience and careful examination of several factors. These include color, texture, carving, and any accompanying documentation about the item. Antique ivory will have an even, consistent coloration, warm texture and visible signs of patina or aging.
Therefore, it is essential to work with experts in assessing the item before settling on a fair value for it.
How old is antique ivory?
Antique ivory can be dated back to as early as the Paleolithic era, which was around 30,000 years ago. This period marked the beginning of human use of ivory, where early humans utilized the tusks of woolly mammoths and other prehistoric animals for tools and weapons.
The production of ivory objects became more sophisticated during the Neolithic period, around 10,000-4,500 BC, where ivory was carved into decorative items such as figurines and ornaments. This era also saw the emergence of trade networks where ivory items were traded across regions.
Antique ivory items have been found in various ancient civilizations such as in Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where ivory was used for carving religious and decorative objects. The ivory trade significantly increased during the Middle Ages, where ivory was used for religious art, book covers, and combs.
During the colonial era, ivory became a valuable commodity in trade between European powers and African countries. This period saw the mass exploitation of elephants for ivory, which led to a significant decline in elephant populations in Africa. This exploitation also gave rise to ivory smuggling and illegal trade.
Today, due to international laws such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the trade of antique ivory is highly regulated. The age of antique ivory is determined through scientific methods such as carbon dating, x-rays, and DNA analysis. As such, antique ivory is highly valued and remains an important aspect of art and cultural heritage.
Is antique ivory valuable?
Antique ivory can be very valuable depending on various factors including its age, condition, and rarity. Most antique ivory pieces are made from the tusks of elephants which were once abundant but are now protected under international wildlife conservation laws, making them rare and highly sought after by collectors.
The value of antique ivory can also vary based on the country of origin, the intricacy of the carving and design, and the historical context in which the piece was crafted. For example, Chinese ivory carvings from the 18th and 19th centuries are particularly valuable due to the high level of skill and craftsmanship demonstrated by the artists at that time.
However, it’s important to note that the sale of antique ivory is a controversial issue due to ethical concerns regarding animal welfare and the impact of the ivory trade on elephant populations. In some countries, it’s illegal to sell or trade in antique ivory, so it’s crucial to research the laws and regulations in your area before attempting to sell or purchase any antique ivory pieces.
while antique ivory can certainly be valuable, it’s important to approach its purchase and sale with caution and respect for the complex ethical and legal issues surrounding this ancient and beautiful material.
Can you buy sell antique ivory?
The buying and selling of antique ivory is a complex issue that is regulated by multiple laws, regulations, and treaties. In general, it is legal to buy and sell antique ivory provided that it meets certain criteria and is traded in accordance with the laws governing its sale.
To begin with, the legality of buying and selling ivory depends largely on the age of the item in question. In most countries, including the United States, antique ivory is defined as any item that is at least 100 years old and made from elephant ivory. In the case of other species, the age requirement may be different.
These regulations vary by country and are often subject to change as regulatory bodies such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) make adjustments to their policies.
Beyond age restrictions, there are specific requirements for how antique ivory can be sold. In the United States, for example, it is only legal to sell ivory if it is accompanied by documentation proving that it was purchased before certain regulatory changes came into effect. This documentation must be provided by a reputable dealer or appraiser, and the ivory must be traded through a licensed dealer in order to comply with the law.
In addition to these legal requirements, there are also ethical considerations surrounding the sale of antique ivory. Many people argue that any trade in ivory, even that which is legal, only serves to perpetuate the demand for ivory products and contributes to the continued decline of elephant populations worldwide.
As such, some individuals and organizations choose not to buy or sell any type of ivory, antique or otherwise, as a matter of principle.
So, to summarize, yes, it is possible to buy and sell antique ivory. However, doing so is subject to a number of legal and regulatory restrictions, including age requirements and documentation requirements. Additionally, some people choose not to engage in the sale of ivory due to ethical concerns.
anyone considering a purchase or sale of antique ivory should carefully consider these issues and ensure that they are in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations before making a transaction.
Can antique ivory be sold on eBay?
The sale of antique ivory on eBay is a topic that has generated significant debate and controversy over the years. The issue centers on the fact that the sale of ivory, regardless of whether it is antique or newly harvested, is heavily regulated, and its trade is illegal in many parts of the world.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), an international treaty that aims to ensure that the trade of wild animals and plants is sustainable and legal, is at the forefront of enforcing the regulation of ivory trade.
In a bid to crackdown on ivory trafficking, several countries have implemented strict laws aimed at curbing the sales of ivory, with some jurisdictions banning ivory sales outright. Countries like China, the United States, and the United Kingdom have all enacted legal provisions prohibiting the sale and trade of ivory, including within their borders.
However, in the United States, there is a limited exception for the sale of antique ivory. Antiques are typically defined as objects that are over 100 years old, and as such, ivory items that were created before 1900 are considered antiques and can be sold legally. Such items are allowed to be bought and sold in interstate commerce as well as exported and imported, as long as they meet the pre-1900 requirement.
In the United Kingdom, on the other hand, the situation is somewhat different. The sale of all types of ivory has been banned since 2018, with several exceptions made for specific items, like musical instruments, some antiques, and items containing ivory of a minimal value or other defined exemptions.
As such, the sale of antique ivory in the United Kingdom is subject to tighter regulations and should be approached with caution.
With regards to eBay, the platform has enacted policies to prevent the sale of illegal ivory through its site. By policy, eBay prohibits the sale of all types of ivory on its site, except for ivory items that are determined to be pre-1900 antiques or those that meet other state or federal requirements regarding ivory sales in the United States.
To sell antique ivory on eBay, the seller must provide documentation that proves the age of the item and that it meets the criteria for an antique. The seller also needs to ensure that the sale of the item complies with all applicable laws governing ivory trade.
While the sale of antique ivory may be permitted in some jurisdictions, it is a strictly regulated activity, and sellers should exercise caution when selling such items, especially through online platforms such as eBay. It is advisable to familiarize oneself with the applicable regulations governing ivory trade and ensure compliance with these regulations to avoid any potential legal trouble.