Piano keys have been crafted from a variety of materials over the years, with ivory being a traditional and highly regarded choice in the past. However, due to ethical and legal concerns regarding the ivory trade, it is crucial to accurately determine whether piano keys are made of ivory or not. Ivory comes from the tusks of elephants and other animals, and the illegal poaching of these animals for their tusks has led to a significant decline in their populations. Therefore, being able to identify ivory piano keys is not only a matter of historical and musical interest but also an important step in complying with wildlife protection laws. In this article, we will explore various methods and characteristics that can help you ascertain if your piano keys are ivory.
Visual Inspection
Appearance and Texture
One of the initial steps in determining if piano keys are ivory is through a careful visual inspection. Ivory typically has a unique appearance and texture. It often has a creamy, off-white color that may develop a yellowish tint over time due to age and exposure to light and air. The surface of ivory keys may exhibit a fine grain pattern that resembles the growth rings of a tree. This grain is a result of the structure of the elephant tusk from which the ivory is sourced. When examined closely, the texture can feel slightly porous and may have a warm, organic feel to the touch. In contrast, modern synthetic materials used for piano keys, such as plastic, usually have a more uniform and smooth appearance without the characteristic grain.
Patina and Aging
Another aspect of visual inspection is looking for signs of patina and aging. Ivory keys that have been in use for a long time will show signs of wear and tear in a particular way. The edges of the keys may become rounded and smooth due to repeated contact with fingers. There might also be small scratches and indentations that have accumulated over the years. Additionally, the yellowing that occurs with age is a significant indicator. The patina on ivory is not a uniform color change but rather a complex blend of hues that gives the keys a sense of history and authenticity. Synthetic keys, on the other hand, may show signs of wear in a different manner, such as chipping or a more abrupt change in color if they are affected by environmental factors.
Physical Properties
Weight and Density
Ivory has a relatively high density compared to many synthetic materials. When you pick up a key that you suspect to be ivory, it will often feel heavier in your hand than a plastic key of the same size. This is because ivory is a natural material with a complex microstructure that contributes to its weight. To get a better sense of the density, you can compare the suspected ivory key with a known plastic key from another piano or a sample of a modern synthetic key material. However, it should be noted that some high-quality synthetic materials have been developed to mimic the weight and feel of ivory, so this method alone is not conclusive.
Thermal Conductivity
Ivory has different thermal conductivity properties compared to plastics. When you touch an ivory key, it may feel cooler to the touch initially and then warm up more slowly than a plastic key. This is because ivory conducts heat at a different rate than synthetic polymers. You can conduct a simple test by touching both an ivory key (if suspected) and a plastic key and observing how quickly they adapt to the temperature of your skin. But again, this test is not foolproof as some advanced synthetic materials have been engineered to have thermal properties closer to ivory.
Chemical Tests
UV Light Reaction
Under ultraviolet (UV) light, ivory often exhibits a characteristic fluorescence. When exposed to UV light in a darkened room, ivory may emit a bluish-white glow. This is due to certain organic compounds present in ivory. However, it is important to note that not all ivory will show the same intensity of fluorescence, and some synthetic materials may also have a similar reaction under UV light. So, while a positive fluorescence under UV light can be an indication of ivory, it should be used in conjunction with other tests for a more accurate determination.
Acid Test
A more invasive but potentially revealing test is the acid test. A small drop of a very dilute acid, such as acetic acid (vinegar), can be carefully applied to an inconspicuous area of the key. Ivory will react with the acid, and you may observe a slight fizzing or bubbling as the acid reacts with the calcium carbonate and other minerals present in ivory. However, this test can cause damage to the key, and it is crucial to exercise extreme caution. It is also illegal to perform such tests on ivory in many regions without proper authorization due to the protected status of ivory. Synthetic materials will not react in the same way as ivory to the acid test.
Historical and Documentation Research
Piano Brand and Model
Researching the brand and model of the piano can provide valuable clues about the materials used for the keys. Some well-known piano manufacturers have historical records that detail the materials they used in different eras. For example, certain luxury piano brands were more likely to use ivory keys during specific time periods. By looking up the production history of the piano, you can get an idea of whether ivory was a standard or optional material for that particular model. Antique piano catalogs, historical company archives, and online piano enthusiast forums can be great resources for this type of research.
Serial Number and Provenance
The serial number of the piano can be used to trace its manufacturing date and origin. This information can then be cross-referenced with historical data on the use of ivory in pianos. Additionally, if there is any available documentation about the piano’s provenance, such as purchase receipts, ownership history, or restoration records, it may mention whether the keys are ivory. Sometimes, pianos with ivory keys may have been passed down through generations, and family stories or heirloom documentation can shed light on the key material.
Professional Appraisal
Piano Technicians and Restorers
Seeking the expertise of a professional piano technician or restorer is often a wise step. These individuals have extensive experience working with different types of piano keys and can use their knowledge and skills to make an assessment. They may use a combination of the methods mentioned above, such as visual inspection, physical examination, and their understanding of piano manufacturing history. A trained professional can also identify any signs of previous key replacements or modifications that might affect the determination of whether the original keys were ivory.
Antique Appraisers and Specialists
For particularly valuable or antique pianos, consulting an antique appraiser or a specialist in musical instrument antiques can be beneficial. They have a broader perspective on the historical and market value of pianos and can provide a more comprehensive appraisal that takes into account not only the key material but also the overall condition and rarity of the instrument. They may also have access to specialized tools and databases that can aid in the accurate identification of ivory piano keys.
Conclusion
Determining if piano keys are ivory requires a combination of careful examination, research, and, in some cases, professional assistance. The visual inspection of appearance, texture, and signs of aging, along with an understanding of the physical properties like weight and thermal conductivity, can provide initial indications. Chemical tests, although more complex and potentially damaging, can also offer valuable insights. Historical and documentation research about the piano’s brand, model, serial number, and provenance is essential in building a complete picture. Finally, the expertise of piano technicians, restorers, antique appraisers, and specialists can help confirm or refute the suspicion of ivory keys. It is important to approach this process with respect for the legal and ethical implications of ivory and to ensure that any actions taken are in compliance with wildlife protection laws. By following these comprehensive steps, one can make a more informed determination about the material of their piano keys and take appropriate measures for the care, restoration, or legal compliance of the instrument.
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