Topmusicanswers
Ivory keys are made in three pieces–key, stem and front, where as plastic keytops only have two pieces–the top and front. If you look closely at the keys, you can see the fine line that is the joint between the keytop and the stem. If this line is present, your keys are indeed ivory.
- How do you know if your piano has ivory keys?
- When did they stop using ivory for piano keys?
- Can you still get ivory piano keys?
- Do ivory piano keys turn yellow?
How do you know if your piano has ivory keys?
Look for an ultraviolet torch. Hold it above the piano keys. If you notice the keys reflect either bright white or violet-blue colours, the keys are made of ivory. Artificial material like resins or plastics will show a completely different reaction.
When did they stop using ivory for piano keys?
Many American piano manufacturers discontinued using ivory in the early 1970s, however, some international manufacturers in parts of Europe and Asia continued using ivory throughout the 1980s, until ivory trade was finally banned in an effort led by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) in ...
Can you still get ivory piano keys?
Ivory from elephant tusks is no longer used to make piano keys and there is a global ban on trade of ivory. Unfortunately, illegal poaching of elephants continues today. Ivory typically comes from the tusks of elephants. ... However virtually all pianos made since the 1970s use plastic for their keytops or keys.
Do ivory piano keys turn yellow?
Ivory piano keys have a natural white luster to them and can be found on high end pianos. Over time, ivory piano keys can get dirty or turn yellow with use. To remove fingerprints, marks, and dirt, use a damp cloth and mild soap.
