The Fourier transform-Raman spectra of elephant ivory are reported and the application of the technique to the non-destructive diagnostic analysis of ivory tusks and artifacts is evaluated. Characteristic vibration features are identified which distinguish genuine elephant ivory from teeth and bone. An imortant outcome of this investigation is the ability of vibrational Raman spectroscopy to characterize specimens of ivory from African (Loxodonta africana) and Asian (Elephas maximus) elephants and also from the extinct proboscid woolly mammoth. Remote sensing applications for larger samples and for inlaid material are also proposed.