TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS
on certain materials
We encourage you to read our full article, especially if you're travelling overseas; but in summary:
Some materials, which may be found in string instruments and bows, have been forbidden by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) from being imported into or exported out of member countries without a permit.
The most likely banned materials to be found are ivory (for example on the frog or tip of a bow), tortoiseshell (bow frog) or whalebone (bow lapping). (See photos at right for some examples)
Banned materials less commonly found are Brazilian rosewood (pegs, tailpiece, chin rests) and lizard skin (thumb leather on bows).
If you are planning on travelling and your instrument has these materials, contact the local CITES authorities. Contact details, and a link to the online permit application, can be found at the end of the full article. If you are unsure whether your bow or instrument has these materials, check with your local qualified luthier.
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