We are releasing today our just completed film to put ivory into its
historical, cultural, and practical context. Our purpose in making
this film is to provide the general public with a basis for
understanding the underlying issues in the present debate between
those with an interest in ivory and those who wish to virtually ban
its sale or movement. If the film helps the public appreciate the
fact that there is more to ivory’s importance than simply a concern
for the future well-being of elephants, then I think we can consider
the effort a success. In addition, we are planning a series of short,
30- to 45-second Internet spots that will deal with a number of
exaggerations, misstatements, and misguided points that have been
made about ivory.
It is going to be tougher to use ivory in jewelry and carving. I
have a large amount of old piano key ivory from restoring concert
grand pianos for a program that I am a part of at Florida State
University. Even the use of this ivory for scrimshaw will require
accurate documentation according to the new laws being enacted. I
found that boar tusk is a good substitute for ivory. I will try to
post a picture, in the near future, of a sculptural ring I did in
the late 70’s of boar tusk with gold and stones that was part of a
series of rings made from bone. I was ready to finally try my hand
at scrimshaw but the new laws have discouraged me from doing so
other than making for friends as gifts.
By now you know the Government has proposed new rules and
regulations regarding the sale and trade of ivory. This legislation
has not been formally promulgated and therefore does not yet have the
force of law. There is even some doubt now whether they will be
adopted in their current form or whether another means to control
ivory will be adopted. For now - and certainly through the end of
June - it is perfectly legal to buy, sell, trade, and ship ivory
within the United States.
Here in Alaska walrus ivory is still used by native carvers quite
extensively and fossilized walrus ivory is also used by both native
and non-native artisans. The ice that has receded due to global
warming has uncovered large amounts of fossil ivory in the far
north.
Mr Bobby Mann the President of the Washington DC GIA alumni
Association and the worlds most formost expert on Ivory who also
teaches classes on it is now fighting the government proposed
regulations along with other experts in the field. You should
contact him via the Washington DC GIA Alumni Sopciety .