Fresh bones are ivory-toned, according to research on the color changes bones undergo during heating (Machado et al., 2022; Mayne Correia, 2024).
Color Changes in Bones with Heat
Bones exhibit distinct color changes when exposed to heat, which can be summarized as follows:
- Fresh State: Bones, when fresh, display ivory tones (Machado et al., 2022; Mayne Correia, 2024). This is their natural, unadulterated color.
- Lower Temperatures: As bones are heated, they transition through various shades of brown.
- Pyrolysis and Carbonization: After pyrolysis (decomposition by heat) and carbonization of the organic material, bones turn black, indicating charring (Machado et al., 2022; Mayne Correia, 2024).
Understanding the Color of Fresh Bones
The ivory color of fresh bones is primarily due to their mineral composition, specifically calcium phosphate. This natural color is distinct from the altered colors they take on when subjected to heat or other external factors.
| Bone State | Color |
|---|---|
| Fresh | Ivory |
| Lower Heat | Various Browns |
| Pyrolysis/Carbonized | Black |
