eBay banned the sale of all items derived from any kind of ivory bearing animal.
It’s important to note that laws and regulations regarding the trade of animal products, including ivory and other animal parts, can vary between countries and regions. The information provided here is a general statement and may not be applicable in all jurisdictions.
In many countries, there are strict regulations and international conventions in place to protect endangered species and prevent the illegal trade of their parts. These regulations aim to preserve wildlife and prevent the exploitation of endangered animals. The specific species mentioned, such as elephant ivory, hippo, mammoth, whale teeth, warthog, and walrus, are subject to various restrictions and bans in many countries.
Regarding elephant ivory in the United States, there have been regulations and restrictions at both the federal and state levels. While federal law permits the trade of certain types of elephant ivory within the United States under specific conditions, individual states may have additional laws and restrictions in place. It is essential to research and understand the regulations in your specific jurisdiction before engaging in any trade involving animal products.
Marine ivory, such as whale teeth, falls under even stricter regulations due to the protection of marine species. The trade and sale of marine ivory are subject to international agreements and conventions, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Mammoth ivory, which comes from extinct woolly mammoths, and ox bone generally have different legal considerations since they do not involve current endangered species. However, it’s important to verify the regulations in your country or region as they can still vary.
To ensure compliance with the law and to promote ethical practices, it is recommended to consult local authorities, wildlife conservation organizations, or legal professionals familiar with the regulations in your area before engaging in the trade or sale of animal products.
The Sale of Ivory
Elk Antler, Mammoth & Ox bone
It is important to note that regulations and laws regarding the sale and trade of animal products can vary between countries and regions. While elk antler, mammoth ivory, and ox bone may not be restricted by certain laws, it is crucial to ensure compliance with the regulations in your specific jurisdiction.
When shipping items internationally, there is a risk that customs officials may mistake the item for a restricted ivory, such as elephant ivory. Customs authorities are vigilant in enforcing regulations related to wildlife trade, and they may subject shipments to inspections and potential delays. It is the responsibility of the seller to understand and adhere to the laws and regulations governing the trade of animal products.
Using misleading descriptions, such as labeling an item as mammoth ivory when it is actually derived from elephant ivory, is against policy, considered mail order fraud, and can violate both federal and international laws. It is important to accurately represent the nature and origin of the items being sold to ensure transparency and legal compliance.
While AntiqueSpider assumes no responsibility for the loss of legal items, sellers should be aware of the potential risks involved in shipping and comply with all applicable laws and regulations to avoid confiscation or other legal issues.
To ensure compliance and mitigate potential risks, it is recommended to consult with legal professionals familiar with the regulations in your area and to stay updated on any changes or updates to the laws regarding the sale and trade of animal products.
Restricted Ivories
Restricted ivories, such as those derived from endangered species, are listed in the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) treaty. The United States adheres to the regulations outlined in the CITES treaty and also has specific federal laws governing the commerce of these items. It is important to note that individual states within the U.S. may have additional restrictions on the trade of restricted ivories.
It is essential for individuals involved in the buying and selling of these items to familiarize themselves with the specific laws and regulations governing the trade of restricted ivories. The details of these laws, including penalties for violations, can vary depending on the type of ivory and the jurisdiction. AntiqueSpider does not provide advice on these laws and cannot be held responsible for any misinformation or misunderstandings that may occur.
When engaging in the trade of restricted ivories, it is crucial to exercise caution and conduct transactions at your own risk. It is recommended to seek legal guidance and stay informed about the relevant laws and regulations to ensure compliance and avoid any potential legal issues.
Please note that this website does not provide a comprehensive explanation of the specific laws and penalties for each type of ivory. For a thorough understanding of the applicable laws, it is advisable to consult legal professionals who specialize in this area.
Elephant Ivory
Items derived from African Elephant Ivory (AEI) are indeed restricted by the CITES treaty, as African Elephants are listed as endangered species. The import and export of AEI are subject to strict regulations under the CITES treaty. In the United States, federal law also imposes restrictions on the import and export of AEI.
However, there are provisions in US federal law that allow for the interstate commerce of AEI that was legally acquired prior to the implementation of the CITES treaty. It’s important to note that some states may have additional requirements, such as special licenses, for individuals intending to engage in the trade of AEI.
On this website, sellers are permitted to offer items derived from Pre-CITES AEI for sale within the United States only. It is not allowed to offer AEI for export outside of the USA or to buyers who require the importation of the item into another country. It’s essential to comply with these restrictions and not engage in any activities that violate the regulations governing the trade of AEI.
Please ensure that you familiarize yourself with the specific laws and regulations related to AEI and consult legal professionals or relevant authorities to ensure full compliance. This website does not provide comprehensive legal advice, and sellers should exercise caution and responsibility when offering items derived from AEI for sale.
Marine Ivories ( Walrus Tusk & Whale Teeth & Narwhal Tusk )
When it comes to items derived from marine ivory, sellers are allowed to offer them only to buyers within the same state. The Marine Mammal Protection Act is a law that prohibits non-Alaskan Natives from possessing raw walrus ivory that hasn’t been handcrafted by Alaskan Natives. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service strictly regulates walrus ivory tusks under the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection Act.
For raw walrus ivory, items that predate the December 21, 1972 law, tusks bearing the Alaska state seal, and ivory that has been carved or scrimshawed by an Alaskan Native (Eskimo), it is legal to buy, possess, and sell within the seller’s state (intrastate). However, raw walrus ivory obtained after December 21, 1972, is not legal to buy or sell unless both parties involved are Eskimo (though it is legal to own). The interstate sale of items derived from whale teeth (scrimshaw or unworked) and narwhal is highly regulated within the United States. Importing and exporting marine ivory to or from the USA is prohibited.
Selling marine ivory within your state (intrastate) does not require federal documentation. However, the import and export of marine ivory items are regulated by CITES, and the documentation requirements for sales between countries vary and are beyond the scope of what is permissible on this website. Sellers bear full responsibility for their listings and must ensure compliance with all applicable restrictions, including U.S. and international laws.
It is crucial for sellers to thoroughly understand and comply with the laws and regulations surrounding the sale of marine ivory, seeking legal guidance if needed, and ensuring that all activities are in accordance with the applicable restrictions.