Thread: Need some adive on ivory scales

Just got three new razors with pre ban elephant ivory. Pre ban since they are about 1850 vintage. Two have some scratching and dull places on the ivory scales that I want to polish. I'm thinking of trying some 1K wet/dry might do the right job. Ideas? I've seen some post on the web about a liberal coat of mineral oil for a few days might be a good finish. I got the blade shave ready but would like to sweeten the scales with a polished finish.

I usually lightly sand with a 150 grit sandpaper. Then 000 steel wool and finish with mothers metal polish.

You don't want to sand too much as ivory is very thin to begin with.

Thanks. I have some 4-0 steel wool and some 1k wet/dry. will 150 get scratches out without leaving some behind? As you mention ivory is thin and the least I can do is where I want to be. May try the steel wool first.

If you have 1k go with that. It may take a little longer but will not leave some minor scratched cuts steel wool cannot remove. You may have to alternate between 1k and steel wool until you are happy with results and then polish.

I don’t really worry too much about scratches on the ivory scales of my very old razor. I do give them a good rubbing with an on piece of suede and mothers them a mineral oil bath. I always soak them before I unpin or pin them, believing that it helps make them more flexible, or less brittle. An old dude that did a lot of stuff with old ivory that used to be around gave that as instructions, so I just believed him and did as Bill said.

Originally Posted by RezDog

I don’t really worry too much about scratches on the ivory scales of my very old razor. I do give them a good rubbing with an on piece of suede and mothers them a mineral oil bath. I always soak them before I unpin or pin them, believing that it helps make them more flexible, or less brittle. An old dude that did a lot of stuff with old ivory that used to be around gave that as instructions, so I just believed him and did as Bill said.

Works for me, too.

I decided not to worry over a few scratches. The scales have some lightly scratched initials and a number. It Makes me think it may have been held in a shop for a patron. Could be wrong.... but otherwise whay a number and tow initials?

You might find a Gold/Silver polishing cloth might just make that Ivory look brand new. Also, judicious use of a cape cod polishing cloth.

These won’t remove scratches but have been the best at polishing dull ivory (and they work well on steel too, especially certain kinds of pitting). Best price so far has been Jasper’s Supply Shop on Etsy - some people want eye-watering prices for them. A jeweler’s supply shop might be a good place to look too.

Please note though, they’re not safe on gold wash.