Have you ever sat down at your piano, your fingers gliding across the keys, and suddenly wondered what piano keys are made of? It’s one of those little details most people never think about, but once the thought hits, it’s hard not to be curious. Are they made from wood, ivory, or plastic? And why do they feel so smooth and different depending on the piano?
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about what piano keys are really made of, from the traditional materials like ivory and ebony to the modern plastics used today. You’ll also learn how the materials affect the sound, feel, and care of your instrument. By the end, you’ll know exactly what gives your piano its unique character and how to keep those keys in perfect condition.
What Is Ivory?
Ivory is a dense, white substance mostly sourced from the tusks of elephants and also from animals such as walruses and hippopotamuses. Its fine grain, smoothness, and beautiful luster made it highly valued for centuries. Craftsmen used it to make jewelry, ornaments, combs, and yes, piano keys.
For piano makers, ivory was considered the gold standard. It provided a natural texture that prevented slipping, absorbed moisture, and offered a luxurious aesthetic unmatched by any other material of its time.
Read more article: What Are Piano Keys Made Of
How Did Ivory Come Into Vogue in the Piano Building?
When the piano was invented in the early 1700s by Bartolomeo Cristofori, the first versions used wooden keys covered in thin veneers. But as piano manufacturing expanded across Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries, ivory quickly became a symbol of status and refinement.
Ivory piano keys were elegant, durable, and visually stunning. By the 1800s, nearly all high-end pianos had ivory tops on the white keys and ebony or stained wood for the black ones. Owning a piano with ivory keys was not just about music; it was about wealth and sophistication.
Aren’t There Moral Objections to the Ivory Trade?
Absolutely, and this is where the story takes a darker turn. The growing demand for ivory in the 19th and early 20th centuries contributed heavily to elephant poaching. Millions of elephants were killed for their tusks, pushing the species toward endangerment.
By the late 20th century, public awareness and conservation efforts brought massive change. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) banned the commercial trade of ivory in 1989. Since then, almost all piano makers have abandoned ivory completely, switching to sustainable and ethical alternatives.
Ivory’s Historical Connection to the Slave Trade
Few people realize that the ivory trade was historically tied to the transatlantic slave trade. European traders in Africa exchanged weapons and goods for both ivory and enslaved people. Ivory traveled alongside human suffering, making its beauty deeply bittersweet.
According to National Geographic, these historical links highlight why modern conservation and ethical manufacturing matter so much today. The piano industry’s shift away from ivory isn’t just a technical evolution; it’s a moral one, too.
So, Why Was Ivory Used for Piano Keys?
Ivory wasn’t chosen by accident it offered real benefits. The material’s natural grain gave pianists better control, preventing their fingers from slipping even during long performances. It also absorbed small amounts of moisture, staying smooth yet grippy.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Ivory | Plastic | Synthetic Ivory (Ivorite/ABS) |
| Texture | Natural grain, slightly porous | Smooth, less grip | Textured to imitate ivory |
| Moisture Resistance | Moderate | High | High |
| Aesthetic | Warm white, unique pattern | Bright white | Ivory-like finish |
| Durability | Strong but brittle | Very durable | Highly durable |
| Ethics | Non-sustainable | Eco-friendly | Eco-friendly |
Ivory keys were prized for feel and beauty, but as awareness grew about elephant conservation, the industry moved to synthetic alternatives that replicate those same tactile qualities without harming wildlife.
Do Piano Makers Still Use Ivory Today?
No modern piano makers no longer use ivory. After the global ivory ban, major brands like Yamaha, Steinway & Sons, Kawai, and Bösendorfer switched entirely to synthetic materials such as ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and Ivorite, a proprietary ivory substitute created by Yamaha.
These modern materials mimic the look and texture of ivory so well that most players can’t tell the difference. They’re also easier to maintain, resist discoloration, and don’t crack over time.
If you’re buying a new piano today, you can rest assured it’s both cruelty-free and environmentally responsible.
Are Any Piano Manufacturers Attempting to Imitate Ivory?
Yes, but only in ethical ways. Piano makers strive to recreate the tactile and visual appeal of ivory without using real ivory. Yamaha’s Ivorite and Kawai’s Acrylic/ABS hybrid materials are among the best-known examples.
These synthetics have micro-textures that feel almost identical to natural ivory. They’re durable, resistant to wear, and maintain a consistent surface over decades of playing. The result is a sustainable alternative that preserves both musical tradition and ethical responsibility.
How Can I Tell If My Piano’s Keys Are Ivory or Plastic?
If you own an older piano, you might wonder whether its keys are real ivory. Luckily, there are a few simple ways to check:
- Look for a fine-grain pattern. Ivory has natural cross-hatch lines called Schreger lines, visible under close inspection.
- Check for seams. Ivory keys are usually made from two pieces the head and tail joined together, while plastic keys are one solid piece.
- Color aging. Ivory tends to yellow with time, while plastic keys remain a more consistent white.
- Texture. Ivory feels slightly rougher, while plastic feels smoother and more uniform.
| Feature | Ivory Key | Plastic Key |
| Texture | Slightly grainy | Smooth |
| Color | Warm/yellowed | Bright white |
| Seam | Often visible | None |
| Sound (Tap Test) | Softer “thud” | Sharper “click” |
If you suspect your piano has ivory keys, handle them carefully. Never bleach or use harsh cleaners. Ivory is porous and delicate.
Are Ivory Keys Worth Anything?
While antique piano keys made of ivory might seem valuable, their resale value is complicated. Due to international ivory bans, it’s illegal in many countries (including the U.S. and the U.K.) to sell or export ivory without proper documentation proving it predates the ban.
Even then, the demand is low because musicians and collectors prefer ethical alternatives. The Ivory Act 2018 further restricts sales, making ivory keys more of a historical artifact than an investment.
So, while ivory keys have cultural and historical value, their market value is limited. If you own an antique piano, its worth lies more in craftsmanship and heritage than the material itself.
Why Modern Piano Keys Are Better Than Ever
Modern piano keys are designed for performance, not prestige. Advances in technology allow manufacturers to create materials that outperform ivory in every way. ABS and Ivorite keys are smooth, durable, and consistent, perfect for both professional pianists and beginners.
They’re also easier to clean and maintain. Unlike ivory, which can yellow and crack, synthetic keys stay pristine for decades. Plus, every keystroke feels consistent, which helps with control and accuracy during playing.
Simply put, modern pianos have never been more ethical or better built.
The Environmental Side of Music
Understanding what piano keys are made of is more than trivia; it’s part of a bigger environmental story. By eliminating ivory, the music industry has taken a meaningful step toward conservation.
Today’s piano makers emphasize sustainability, from responsibly sourced wood to non-toxic finishes. It’s proof that you can honor tradition while protecting nature, ensuring that the beauty of music never comes at the cost of life.
Conclusion
From ivory to innovation, the journey of piano keys tells a story of craftsmanship, conscience, and change. What began as a luxury built on exploitation has evolved into an art rooted in ethics and sustainability.
So next time you sit at a piano, take a moment to appreciate not just the melody you create but the progress behind every key. Modern pianos prove that beauty and responsibility can truly play in harmony.
FAQS
What are piano keys made of?
Modern piano keys are made from durable synthetic materials like plastic or acrylic, while older ones were often made from ivory and wood.
How do I know if my piano keys are ivory or plastic?
Ivory keys have fine-grain lines and a slightly rough texture, while plastic keys are smooth, bright white, and usually seamless.
Are piano keys made out of elephant tusks?
Yes, historically, ivory from elephant tusks was used for piano keys, but it’s now banned to protect wildlife.
Are piano keys made of ivory worth anything?
Ivory keys have little market value today due to strict trade bans; their worth is mostly historical, not financial.