Mammoth ivory jewellery is made from a natural fossil material. It is not plastic, resin or a cheap acrylic imitation. For this reason, it should be treated with more care than synthetic jewellery. Mammoth ivory has its own structure, colour, grain and natural surface. These characteristics are exactly what make every piece unique, but they also mean that proper care is important.

Avoid Strong Sunlight and UV Exposure

Mammoth ivory jewellery should not be exposed to extreme, direct sunlight for long periods of time. Strong UV light and extreme heat can affect the surface of natural ivory materials. Over time, this may lead to colour changes, drying or tiny surface cracks (hairlines).

For normal daily wear, this does not present a problem. However, mammoth ivory jewellery should not be left for several days on a windowsill with extreme UV exposure, in strong direct summer sun, or next to a hot fireplace.

Do Not Wash with Detergents or Chemicals

Mammoth ivory should not be “washed” with detergents, aggressive soap, alcohol, perfume, jewellery cleaners or other chemical products. It is a natural material and can absorb moisture or react to chemicals.

Do Not Submerge in Water

Mammoth ivory jewellery should not be submerged in water. Please remove it before swimming, extended showering, bathing or using a sauna. Short contact with a little moisture can be managed, but soaking the material is not recommended.

If the jewellery becomes slightly wet, dry it gently with a soft cotton cloth. Do not use heat, a hairdryer or direct sunlight to speed up the drying process.

Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes

Natural mammoth ivory does not like extreme and sudden temperature changes. A good example is going from a very hot sauna directly into cold water while wearing the jewellery. Such rapid changes can stress the material.

Avoid exposing jewellery to strong heat, freezing cold, radiators, fireplaces and so on.

Protect It from Hard Impacts

Mammoth ivory is very solid, but it is not indestructible. Do not hit it hard against stone, tiles, metal, glass or other hard surfaces. Rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets should be handled with care, especially when travelling or storing them with other jewellery.

Correct Storage

Store mammoth ivory jewellery at normal room temperature, away from direct sunlight and away from strong heat or cold sources. A jewellery box, soft pouch or lined drawer is  suitable. Ideally, store each piece separately so that metal parts, gemstones or other jewellery do not scratch the ivory surface.

How to Clean Mammoth Ivory Jewellery

For normal care, clean the surface gently with a dry or slightly damp soft cotton cloth. Do not scrub. Do not soak. Do not use chemical jewellery cleaners.

If dirt remains in small details or carved areas, use a very soft dry brush and work carefully. The aim is simple surface cleaning, not aggressive polishing.

Repair and Refreshing

One advantage of mammoth ivory jewellery is that the surface can often be refreshed by an experienced craftsperson. Small marks, scratches or dull areas can usually be improved by carefully sanding down the very top layer and then applying a thin protective layer of transparent wax.

This should be done professionally and with care. The goal is to preserve the natural material, not to over-polish it.

Final Advice

Mammoth ivory jewellery is made to be worn and enjoyed, but it should be treated like a natural fossil material. Keep it dry, avoid strong sunlight, protect it from chemicals and sudden temperature changes, and clean it gently with a soft cotton cloth. With proper care, mammoth ivory jewellery can remain beautiful for many years.

If you have any questions or require further explanations, please email us: info@arcticantiques.com