 |
| An elephant enjoys the fiber from a palm frond |
Ecological Fashion from Palm Ivory
From the palms of the jungles of South America, a marvelous alternative to cutting down rain forests also grows as replacement for elephant ivory. This ecological gem, known as vegetable ivory or palm ivory, is a classic symbol of working with the fruits of nature in harmony with the environment to save a threatened species, not even native to where the Palm Ivory grows.
The hard endosperm of the palm nuts from the Genus Phytelephas closely resemble elephant ivory. Shaped like an avocado or teardrop, nuts are typically 1” wide and 1.5” long. When dried in the sun for 4 to 6 months, the nut is sliced, dyed, drilled and polished by tumbling in water and jungle stones. The nut is carved for use in beads, buttons, figurines and jewelry. With spectacular jewel-like qualities and from colors that are obtained when dyed, the Tagua or Corozo, as they are also known, are becoming popular for their beauty and as meaningful fashion items that make a statement about ecology.
 |
| Wax Palms tower over a Columbian Valley |
The few species of the Palm Ivory in South America grow in their native countries of Ecuador, Columbia and Brazil. P. Macrocarpa is native to Brazil and the chief source of Palm Ivory for International markets. The kernels are harvested from the ground and prepared by removing the outer husk. The nut shrinks as it hardens to an ivory color and feel. Slicing, carving and water-tumbling are traditional methods used to prepare the natural product of exquisite and unique magnificence.
 |
| Palm Ivory Pendant |
For more than 140 years, the Ivory Palm has been used as an Ivory substitute without much fanfare. In consideration of earth’s resources and the plight of elephants worldwide, the significance of the Palm Ivory is growing. As an eco-friendly product that renewable and sustainable, the nuts from one tree equal the Ivory from one elephant. Use of the Palm Ivory nut and education about it helps to protect the elephant and supports the employment of the many people of the rain forests.
Scientific records indicate that the indigenous people started giving the Palm Ivory nut to carry around their necks long ago, believing that the person who wore it was protected by the love of friends and family. If this belief is true, it is one more benefit from the wondrous Palm Ivory.
More Information
The International Elephant Foundation (IEF) supports conservation, education and research of the world’s elephants with a commitment to affect positive change through the facilitation of elephant conservation and sound scientific investigation resulting in the protection of elephants for future generations. For more information about how you can help in elephant conservation, please visit http://www.elephantconservation.org/
For examples of handcrafted jewelry from the Palm Ivory nut, visit palmleather.com
