Ivory vs. White Alabaster: Unveiling the Differences
Ivory and white alabaster, while both prized for their creamy hues and often used in similar applications, are distinctly different materials with unique properties and origins. Understanding these differences is crucial for collectors, artists, and anyone appreciating the beauty and history of these materials.
What is Ivory?
Ivory is a hard, creamy-white material obtained from the tusks and teeth of animals, most notably elephants. For centuries, it's been highly valued for its beauty, durability, and suitability for carving intricate designs. However, due to the devastating impact of poaching on elephant populations, the international trade in elephant ivory is now largely banned. This has led to a significant increase in the value of legal, antique ivory, while also driving demand for ethically sourced alternatives.
Key characteristics of ivory:
- Organic origin: Ivory is a natural product derived from animal tissue.
- Warm, creamy tone: It often displays a subtle yellowing or darkening with age.
- Fine grain: Its texture is dense and smooth, allowing for precise carving.
- High cost: Due to the ban and rarity of legally obtained ivory, it is exceedingly expensive.
- Ethical concerns: Purchasing new ivory is highly unethical and illegal in many countries.
What is Alabaster?
Alabaster is a fine-grained, translucent variety of gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate). It's a sedimentary rock formed through evaporation processes. White alabaster is prized for its soft, smooth texture, and its ability to transmit light, creating a warm, luminous glow.
Key characteristics of alabaster:
- Inorganic origin: Alabaster is a mineral, not an animal product.
- Range of colors: While white is common, alabaster can also be found in shades of yellow, brown, and even green.
- Softer texture: Compared to ivory, alabaster is much softer and easier to carve, though less durable.
- Lower cost: Alabaster is generally more readily available and less expensive than ivory.
- No ethical concerns: Unlike ivory, there are no ethical concerns associated with alabaster.
How to Tell the Difference Between Ivory and White Alabaster
Distinguishing between the two can sometimes be challenging, especially for untrained eyes. Here are some key differences to consider:
1. Texture and Feel: Alabaster, being a softer stone, feels noticeably smoother and less dense than ivory. Ivory possesses a slightly grainy texture.
2. Light Transmission: Alabaster, especially in thin pieces, will often transmit light, showcasing a warm glow. Ivory, though it can appear translucent in very thin sections, does not display the same level of light transmission.
3. Density and Weight: Ivory is significantly denser and heavier than alabaster of comparable size.
4. Schlieren: Sometimes, alabaster exhibits subtle banding or swirling patterns called schlieren, which are not typically found in ivory.
5. Burn Test (Not Recommended): A less reliable method involves a burn test; ivory will burn with a characteristic odor, while alabaster will not. However, this method is destructive and should be avoided unless you are absolutely certain of the origin of the material and are willing to sacrifice a small, inconspicuous portion for testing.
6. Scientific Testing: For valuable pieces, scientific testing using methods like X-ray diffraction or infrared spectroscopy can definitively determine the composition of the material.
What are the uses of Ivory and Alabaster?
Historically, both materials have been used in various art forms and decorative objects. Ivory was prized for intricate carvings, such as religious figures, jewelry, and piano keys. Alabaster, due to its translucency and ease of carving, has been used in sculpture, lamps, and decorative items. Today, the use of ivory is heavily restricted due to conservation efforts, whereas alabaster remains a popular material for artistic and decorative applications.
Is there a modern alternative to ivory?
Yes, there are numerous modern alternatives to ivory, including resin, bone, tagua nut (vegetable ivory), and various plastics. These materials offer varying degrees of similarity in appearance and workability, providing ethical and sustainable choices for artists and craftspeople.
By understanding the distinct characteristics of ivory and white alabaster, we can appreciate the unique qualities of each material and make informed choices about their acquisition and use. Remember that the illegal ivory trade poses a significant threat to elephant populations, and responsible sourcing is paramount.
