Definition:

The term ivory has traditionally been used to refer to the hard, white or cream colored elephant or mammoth tusks, but it can also be used to describe the tusks of a walrus and other similar animals.

Because the bulk of animals used to acquire ivory are on the endangered species list, most ivory trade is prohibited in the United States. Antique ivory objects (items over 100 years old) can be legally imported if their age and origins can be verified.

Also see: Vegetable Ivory