Pink Ivory ranges in color from a pale brownish pink, to a bright, almost neon pink, to a deep red. Typically the most valuable pieces of Pink Ivory are a vibrant pink. Pink Ivory can commonly be seen with a curly or fiddleback grain pattern, further enhancing its visual impact. Sapwood of Pink Ivory tends to be pale yellow to light brown, with a somewhat gradual demarcation from heartwood. Color changes in Pink Ivory (becoming faded or dull over time) can be problematic and are not fully understood. Grain is straight to interlocked; fine, even texture with good natural luster. Carving, veneers, inlay, knife handles, billiard cues, chessmen, and other turned objects. Pink Ivory trees are said to be both rare and valuable and have been rumored to be “rarer than diamonds.” Other reports state that the tree is relatively common in some areas of South Africa—though large trees with straight, defect-free trunks are much scarcer. According to folklore, the tree is considered sacred to the Zulus in South Africa and is reserved for royalty.
