Faux ivory

Ivory has been used as a valuable bio-tissue since prehistoric times. However, the excessive trade of elephant ivory has contributed greatly to the catastrophic decline of elephants. 

Consequently there is a market for alternative and sustainable substitutes for elephant ivory, particularly in the production of carved handicrafts.

Jarina, the  dried endosperm of the seed of the palm Phytelephas sp. is widely used as a substitute in the Amazon region due to its favourable mechanical properties and its close resemblance to elephant ivory. The seeds are used in a variety of ways, for example in making military uniform buttons, piano keys and carvings for tourists.

This Jarina carving, sitting atop a Jarina seed, represents, I think, a river dolphin. It was a gift from a friend who spent some time working as an eye surgeon in South America.