Ivory Question

[Austy]

I have a question for those call makers who make calls on a regular basis using Ivory for their mouth pieces or elsewhere in their calls.
From the information that I have read on the website where I purchased my Ivory for my current project I know that Ivory doesn't like heat (It Checks like wood), should not be wet sanded and should be resealed when your work is completed to keep it from checking from exposure.

I have 2 questions. 
1. Do You or Do You Not reseal your finished work piece (in my case it will (most likely) be a Trumpet Mouth Piece) when you are done making it.
2. If so What do you use to reseal your work when your done.

Just looking for some opinions guys.  The only dumb question is the question that isn't ask so I'm asking hoping to gain some knowledge because I have never worked with this stuff before and as you all know it's to dang expensive to make a mistake with.

Thanks

[stevelumma]

I usually rub on some renisance wax after i am finished working and polishing my ivory pieces. Ivory must be bored out little by little and not too fast. I usually bore 1/8" and then clear my bit. It wants to build up and stick on the bit, that will create a lot of friction which will build up heat pretty fast. I have found it sticks less on titanium coated bits compared to straight steel bits. I turn mine at high rpms and remove small amounts at a time. Keep your tools sharp , and it isn't as difficult as you may think. In fact, its my favorite material to turn. Hope that helps you get started

[Austy]

Thank you Steve for your comment to this post and the additional information on how you finish your Ivory pieces.   Your work is simply OUTSTANDING!!!!

[Houlihan]

I agree with Steve, and I've turned and worked with a lot of ivory. With sharp tools, it cuts so smoothly. It's wonderful material to work with. But, you're right, heat isn't good for it. It will make it brittle and lead to cracks, even some that won't materialize until later. And, it can discolor the ivory. So, again, keep your tools sharp. Drilling it with sharp bits is as important as your chisels. I've had it heat up when I drill it more than when I turn it.  I tend to back the bits out and give it a rest and try not to heat it up then. I always polish mine when done (before scrimshawing or carving, if I plan to do that) with a white polishing paste. I use a jeweler's polish called fabulustre polishing compound. Cheap, and it makes the ivory spectacularly smooth and glossy. I sometimes put Renaissance Wax on, too. But only if I've scrimshawed piece. Otherwise, the polishing compound is all I use.

[Austy]

Thanks Guys.  From the work that I have seen both of you post on here I know that you are both very familiar with working with Ivory and really appreciate your comments and suggestions on how and what you both use when you are working your Ivory pieces.  I drool every time I see one of the Ivory pieces that both of you post.  Keep up that Awesome work!!!!