While a lot of people are familiar with pool as a game, others may not be so familiar. You can play many different types of games with a cue, but the most common is called pool. Billiards is just one of many different versions of the game that can be played with a few friends and a set of standard cues.
Billiards balls are made from natural materials that help them to perform well and last for quite some time. Natural materials include things like vulcanized leather, pigmented resin, cork, and linen. The materials used in billiards balls have advantages over their synthetic counterparts. These advantages include cost effectiveness, durability, lack of environmental impact, and suitability for specific applications.
Are There Billiard Balls Still Made of Ivory?
Sadly, yes. Ivory is still used to make billiard balls for a few reasons.
Ivory is the only kind of animal material that can be shaped into the perfect sphere. Synthetic materials are often not as durable and will lose their shape quickly in water.
The other reason why ivory is still used to make billiard balls is because it has a warm feel to it and also retains moisture better than synthetic materials do.
Unsurprisingly, with this downside, the price tag on ivory-made balls is high. There are some synthetic alternatives that are cheaper, but they don’t have the same aesthetic appeal as ivory.
When Did They Stop Using Ivory for Billiard Balls?
On September 12, 1989, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service banned the use of African elephant ivory in all commercial transactions. That’s because elephants are endangered and the demand for ivory has led to a mass poaching that threatens the species’ existence.
Before this ban, billiard balls were always made from ivory, but after it was implemented, manufacturers switched to other materials like vulcanized leather.
How Long Do Billiard Balls Last?
Billiards balls typically last a year or two. If they do not get proper care, they may last up to three years. After this point, the balls may become brittle and break easily. The materials used in billiards balls are also natural so that it can be repaired when necessary.
What Are Professional Billiard Balls Made Of?
Billiards balls are made from natural materials that help them to perform well and last for quite some time. Natural materials include things like vulcanized leather, pigmented resin, cork, and linen.
If you’re looking for a professional ball that will do the job without weighing you down or breaking the bank, synthetic options may be your best bet.
Synthetic spheres are typically made out of polyurethane or various types of rubber material. They also have a hard surface so they can hold their shape during play. Another common application of synthetic balls is in table tennis where the balls are glued together to create a seamless surface for fast and easy play.
