Description

Alaskan Woolly Mammoth Ivory Tusks

Find ethically sourced Alaskan Woolly Mammoth ivory tusks for sale. Discover unique and ancient pieces, perfect for collecting, carving, and investment.

A matching set of woolly mammoth tusks.

Due to the nature of the permafrost, these specimens were discovered close in proximity to one another in different years. One was found deeper down closer to bedrock in orange clay, causing an orange coloration to the tusk highlighted in its restoration. The other tusk displays blue vivianite, a mineral that forms on the tusk due to presence of phosphorus in surrounding muck. Permafrost in Alaska shifts and moves over time which is why entire skeletons are rarely found in one location and matching sets are exceedingly rare.

Fossil mammoth ivory is distinguished from present-day elephant ivory by the angle of crosshatching (Schreger lines). This set is not from The Boneyard Alaska location, but another creek north of the renowned site.

Buried Treasure: The Allure and Controversy of Alaskan Woolly Mammoth Ivory

For millennia, they roamed the vast, icy landscapes of Alaska, giants draped in shaggy fur, wielding massive, curved tusks. The woolly mammoth, now extinct, left behind a legacy that continues to intrigue and provide a unique connection to the past: its ivory. Buried in the permafrost, Alaskan woolly mammoth ivory tusks are a tangible link to a bygone era, a source of both fascination and ethical debate.

Imagine holding a piece of history, a fragment of a creature that walked the earth with our ancestors, hundreds of thousands of years ago. This is the allure of woolly mammoth ivory. Unlike elephant ivory, its trade is legal in most jurisdictions because it comes from extinct animals. This crucial distinction has fueled a niche market, with the ivory finding its way into the hands of artisans, collectors, and even researchers.

A Treasure Trove Unearthed:

Melting permafrost, a direct consequence of climate change, is increasingly exposing these frozen relics. Alaska’s indigenous communities, particularly those who traditionally rely on hunting and fishing, often partner with scientists and commercial enterprises to responsibly harvest the ivory. The thawing ground reveals not just tusks, but also invaluable insights into the life and environment of the woolly mammoth, including bone fragments, hair samples, and even preserved stomach contents.

This newfound accessibility has led to a booming industry, albeit a tightly regulated one. Tusks, ranging in size from small fragments to impressive, multi-foot specimens, are evaluated based on their size, condition, and color. The best pieces, with minimal cracking and rich coloration, command high prices.

Uses and Applications – From Knives to Art:

The unique properties of woolly mammoth ivory make it highly sought after. Its tight grain and subtle coloration make it ideal for carving. Artisans create intricate sculptures, jewelry, and knife handles, transforming ancient material into contemporary art. The ivory’s inherent beauty and historical significance add an extra layer of value and appeal to these creations.

Beyond artistry, woolly mammoth ivory also has practical applications. It’s used in musical instrument making, particularly for inlay work, and can even be found in some luxury watch components.

The Ethical Gray Area:

While the harvest of woolly mammoth ivory is generally legal, it’s not without its controversies. The potential for “passing off” elephant ivory as mammoth ivory raises concerns about poaching and the illegal trade in endangered species. Strict regulations and careful monitoring are essential to ensure that the demand for mammoth ivory doesn’t inadvertently contribute to the demise of modern elephants.

Furthermore, the ethical implications of profiting from a creature that went extinct, potentially due to human activity, are debated. Some argue that harvesting the ivory is a respectful way to study and appreciate these magnificent animals, while others believe it’s morally wrong to profit from their remains.

Looking to the Future:

As climate change continues to thaw the Arctic, more woolly mammoth ivory will undoubtedly be unearthed. Responsible management and regulation of this resource are crucial to ensure its sustainable use and to prevent it from inadvertently fueling the illegal trade in elephant ivory.

The future of woolly mammoth ivory lies in a balance between economic opportunity, scientific discovery, and ethical considerations. By understanding the complexities of this unique material, we can appreciate its historical significance and ensure its responsible use for generations to come. The Alaskan woolly mammoth ivory tusk isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s a reminder of our connection to the natural world and the importance of preserving its integrity for the future.