The spelling of the phrase "old ivory" is straightforward phonetically, with each sound being represented by its corresponding letter. The first syllable "old" is pronounced as /oʊld/, with the long o diphthong followed by a clear d sound. The second syllable "ivory" is pronounced as /ˈaɪvəri/, with the long i sound, the schwa vowel sound, and the clear r sound. Together, the two syllables make up the word "old ivory," which refers to a pale yellowish-brown color similar to the tusks of aged elephants.
Old ivory refers to a specific type of elephant ivory that has been in existence for a considerable period of time and is associated with antique or vintage objects. Ivory itself is obtained from the tusks of elephants and has been historically prized for its aesthetic appeal, durability, and workability. However, due to the illegal wildlife trade and increasing conservation concerns, the international sale and trade of ivory from elephants, regardless of its age or origin, has been largely banned or heavily regulated in many countries since the late 20th century.
Old ivory, therefore, is ivory that was obtained prior to such bans or regulations, usually from the tusks of African or Asian elephants that existed before the implementation of these protective measures. It is often used to create intricate carvings, figurines, jewelry, or other ornamental objects, reflecting the artistic and craftsmanship skills of various cultures across history. Due to its scarcity and the ethical considerations surrounding the killing of elephants for their ivory, old ivory has become highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
In today's context, possessing or trading old ivory may be subject to legal restrictions, as many countries have implemented strict regulations to combat the illegal ivory trade and protect elephant populations. Additionally, increasing awareness about conservation and animal welfare has led to a growing preference for alternative materials over ivory in the creation of art and decorative pieces.
The word "old ivory" is a compound phrase that combines the adjective "old" with the noun "ivory".
The term "ivory" originated from the Old French word "ivurie", which came from the Latin word "ebur". The Latin term itself can be traced back to the Ancient Greek word "elephas" or "elephantos", which means "elephant".
"Old", on the other hand, has Old English roots, derived from the Germanic word "ald". It has consistently been used throughout history to refer to something that is advanced in years and no longer new or young. The combination of "old" with "ivory" simply indicates that the ivory being referred to is aged or antique.