Official Luthiers Forum!

Hi All,

I've noticed that from time to time on ebay (at least the aussie ebay) that there sometimes are antique ivory handled cutlery going for a few dollars a piece. Some of these handles, especially the ones on larger serving utensils, are probably big enough to get a couple of nuts or saddles out of.

Are Ivory nuts and saddles superior to bone to the extent that this would be worthwhile? Or have I just found another way to waste my time?

Thanks,

Paul

Hi Paul,
Someone gave me a broken ivory sculpture of carved elephants. I cut it up and got about 20 nuts and 20 saddles. If you can find a piece big enough and cheap enough it should be worthwile.
I can't say that ivory is any "better" than bone but it sure is more beautifull to my eyes, especially the cross hatching on the "end grain".
BradBrad Goodman38426.4764814815

It makes really nice material for nuts but I don't use it for saddles because it seems too soft.