What You’ll Need

• “IWhite” – Polyurethane Casting Resin – White, Fast-Curing Two-Part System: A reference for visual and tactile comparison if you have a known resin piece.
• “Icrystal” – Clear Epoxy Resin – Odourless Formula – Up to 1.5cm: Compare high clarity resin to real ivory for transparency checks.
• “Liquidissima” – Epoxy Resin For Creations & Jewellery: Useful for comparing fine detail and surface appearance with ivory objects.
• “Trasparente” – Multipurpose Clear Epoxy Resin for Casting – Up to 2cm: A versatile resin sample to observe finish and gloss versus natural ivory.
• Magnifying glass (optional but enhances inspection)
• Strong light source
• Pin or needle (for discreet surface tests)

See real examples of resin vs ivory

View side-by-side images to understand subtle differences in texture, colour, and gloss between modern resin pieces and genuine ivory. Lighting and magnification can be especially revealing for fine details.

Step 1: Inspect the Visual Details

Begin by carefully examining the object under a strong light. Visual differences between resin and ivory are often noticeable when you know what to look for. Genuine ivory displays a subtle cross-hatch or ‘engine-turned’ pattern called Schreger lines, which appear as a criss-cross or V-shaped feature on cut surfaces. Resin, on the other hand, may show swirls, bubbles, or a uniform appearance without visible grain.

If you have access to reference resin pieces, such as those made from “IWhite” Polyurethane Casting Resin, compare the texture and finish side by side. Resin materials often look too perfect, cloudy, or glossy in a way not typical of traditional ivory.

Step 2: Check Texture and Temperature

Ivory has a dense, fine-grained feel and is noticeably cool to the touch, warming slowly in your hand. Tactile clues when handling objects include gentle warmth from real ivory, versus a quicker warming sensation from resin, which can feel more plasticky or lightweight.

Run your fingertip over the surface. Resin may feel smoother, slightly tacky, or completely uniform, especially on items cast with “Liquidissima” epoxy resin, whereas ivory often features delicate ridges and a more organic texture from traditional carving techniques.

Step 3: Use the Pin Test for Surface Hardness

In an inconspicuous area, gently press a pin or needle into the surface. Ivory is extremely hard and will normally resist penetration or scratching. Resin, particularly types like “Trasparente” Casting Resin, though durable, tends to show slight indentation or even leave a mark, depending on the specific formula and cure.

Take care not to damage valuable items. This test is best reserved for pieces with questionable authenticity or where marks won’t affect value.

Step 4: Observe Transparency and Colour Under Light

Hold the object up to a bright light. True ivory is only slightly translucent at very thin sections, whereas clear resin pieces—like those made with “Icrystal” Clear Epoxy Resin—may glow or transmit more light. Ivory’s colour is naturally off-white, creamy, or yellowed with age. Resin is often bright white, perfectly clear, or can be artificially toned to resemble ivory, but is less likely to develop authentic patina over time.

Step 5: Listen for the Right Sound

Lightly tap the suspected item against your teeth or a hard surface. Ivory produces a sharper, crisper sound, while resin makes a duller, more muted tap. Listening for the right sound can add a useful clue when visual and tactile checks are inconclusive. Use caution to avoid chipping or damaging the piece.

Step 6: Consider Smell and Chemical Tests

When gently warmed, ivory emits a faint, organic aroma, but resin, especially fresh epoxy or polyurethane, may have a subtle chemical scent. However, once cured, most high-quality resins are odourless and hypoallergenic, as seen with products like “Icrystal” – Odourless Formula. Avoid harsh chemical tests on valuable or antique pieces, as they may cause damage.

Tips and Troubleshooting

When in doubt, always use a combination of the tests above rather than relying on a single characteristic. Some high-end resin objects, especially those cast with professional systems such as those offered by ResinPro, closely imitate the grain and warmth of ivory. Patina and age are good clues—genuine ivory yellows with time and develops microcracks, while resin generally remains stable in colour.

Avoid invasive or destructive tests if the item’s historic or monetary value is high. For professional identification, consider consulting an expert or requesting scientific analysis (such as UV light examination or spectroscopy), especially for antiques or heirloom pieces.

Trusted products to help differentiate

Reference real samples of casting resin and epoxy resins when practising your identification skills. Using known materials enables easier comparison and builds confidence when distinguishing between resin and ivory in the future.