Advice wanted: Care of Old Ivory (e.g. Mammoth) vs. New Ivory

[greenie]

I read in the forums that one should wipe down new ivory with mineral oil about every 6 months. Is this also true for old ivory such as Mammoth ivory? I'm looking for advise.

Thank you,
Carl G

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"Speak softly and carry a big stick"...TR

 

[greenie]

BTTT

 

[KnifeArt]

Hope this article helps.
http://www.knifeart.com/carbyamyflin.html

Mineral oil should be good maintence for both ivory and fossil ivories.

Larry

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KnifeArt.com - Fine Custom Knives
KnifeDirectory.com - Online Knife Guide

 

[greenie]

One more question I have:

Will light petroleum based oil such as used to lubricate a knife blade and the pivot point on a folder hurt ivory?

Advise would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Carl G

------------------
"Speak softly and carry a big stick"...TR

 

[rdangerer]

I would think that you would want to avoid any oils that had anything but a very clear color to them... otherwise risk discoloration.

Mineral oil is totally refined and clear. I used it to close up cracks on a nice piece of walrus ivory, works pretty well.