Thread: Ivory, Bone or What?

I purchased this razor in England at a flea market almost 55 years ago. It was my first straight razor and it’s done me well for a long time - shaves like a dream.

I have no idea what the scale material is. I suspect it may be ivory since it is very thin and the grain pattern does not look like the bone scales I have on other razors.

The scales are looking a little “grungy” and I’ve been thinking about giving them a refresher, but have no idea how to do that or if I should even try.

Any advice will be much appreciated.

Bone. Those capillary grooves and dots are telltale. I think bone feels the best in-hand.

Bone

I would leave them be but you could try some 35% hydrogen peroxide.

I am with Dave on that. A little dish soap and a toothbrush. That Patina looks great!

Definitely not Ivory. It looks like bone.

Agreed, bone. Ivory doesn't have the pores. But very nice tbough.

It's a matter of preference on the look. It's sort of like "patina." Some people like it. I call it rusty old crap. To me a blade should look shiny and clean.

I kind of like the bone to have that soap stone look it can get when it is completely clean but I don't dislike the "patina" on it like I do on the blade.

But then, that's just my preference.