Gav, even less likely to be antler (another form of bone). Antlers have a very "spongy" interior as a result of their rapid growth. This is elephant ivory.
The marks are the result of oil from peoples hands and dirt. Gentle washing with soap and water would remove it (not that I recommend washing it).
I've owned a few of these and they all had ivory blades and hilts. This one is a very nice example.
|