Care for Antique Ivory, Bone, Horn and Antler

Ivory, bone, horn and antler may look similar, but their structures and sensitivities differ. Identification matters before cleaning, and trade or transport of wildlife materials may be legally restricted.

Understand the materials

Ivory is tooth material. Bone often shows small pits or channels from its vascular structure. Antler is a form of bone with a dense outer layer and porous interior. Horn is keratin, related to hair and nails.

Synthetic imitations such as cellulose nitrate "French ivory" can deteriorate differently and may create additional storage hazards.

Handle cleanly

Use clean, dry hands or suitable gloves where grip remains secure. Skin oils can stain porous surfaces. Support objects from below and avoid thin handles, carved projections and old joins.

Keep conditions stable

Avoid direct sun, bright lamps, radiators, vents and damp walls. Rapid temperature or humidity changes can cause movement and cracking. Horn can be attacked by insects.

The [Canadian Conservation Institute](https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/care-objects/indigenous-collections/basic-care-ivory-horn-bone-antler.html) recommends protection from rapid environmental change, dust and strong light.

Dust gently

A soft brush is often sufficient. Do not wet-clean porous bone or antler, cracked objects, decorated surfaces or items with unknown adhesives. Never soak any of these materials.

Avoid bleach, peroxide, oil, wax, furniture polish and abrasive whitening methods. Natural age-related colour may be patina, not dirt.

Choose storage materials carefully

Use unbuffered acid-free tissue or washed unbleached muslin and a stable enclosure appropriate to the condition. Avoid rubber contact, which can cause discolouration. Give each object support so projections do not carry weight.

Check the law

Ivory and some horn materials are regulated. Ownership, sale, export and import rules depend on species, age, documentation and jurisdiction and can change. Consult current official guidance before any transaction or transport.

Seek a conservator for cracks, ingrained staining, active pests, composite objects or uncertain identification.

For practical restoration demonstrations and workshop stories, [watch and subscribe to Antique Repair Shop on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@AntiqueRepairShop).

Sources and further reading

[Canadian Conservation Institute: Basic care of ivory, horn, bone and antler](https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/care-objects/indigenous-collections/basic-care-ivory-horn-bone-antler.html)
[Canadian Conservation Institute: Care of ivory, bone, horn and antler](https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/conservation-preservation-publications/canadian-conservation-institute-notes/care-ivory-bone-horn-antler.html)

How to Care for Antique Ivory, Bone, Horn and Antler Objects