Natural & Man-made Materials

People have sought out inexpensive durable materials for thousands of years. The earliest examples are natural, such as stone, animal bones, and, wood, until people began to invent their own materials, such as lacquer and various plastics. These materials often need special care and storage. Many require unique cleaning methods; for example, ivory should not be washed. Plastics can crack or decompose over time, and celluloid is flammable and should be stored in a cool, ventilated area.