How to Care for Bone and Ivory Furniture Mounts

First identify the material cautiously: bone, ivory, shell, horn, synthetic substitutes and vegetable ivory can appear similar. Look for lifting, shrinkage cracks, staining and loose pins. Dust secure surfaces with a soft brush and avoid soaking, bleaching or oiling. Retain detached pieces and seek conservation advice for repair. Wildlife-trade laws may restrict sale, export and replacement of ivory; preserve provenance and use lawful substitute material where loss compensation is justified.

Inspect first

Record the object and its surroundings in clear photographs. Identify associated wood, metal, stone, coating, textile and adhesives before choosing any method.

Reduce the cause

Control moisture, heat, light, dust, load or pest access. Stable indoor conditions and careful placement prevent more damage than frequent product application.

Clean conservatively

Begin with a soft brush and controlled low suction only when the surface is secure. Test any further cleaning in a hidden place and stop if colour, coating or particles move.

Avoid harmful shortcuts

Household sprays, bleach, polish, oil, steam and abrasives can permanently change antiques. Keep liquids from joints, backing layers, porous stone and thin decorative coatings.

Long-term care

Document treatment, retain loose fragments and monitor photographed areas. Active corrosion, lifting inlay, protected wildlife materials, unstable decoration or structural stone damage requires a qualified conservator.