Ivory carving techniques are believed to have been introduced to Japan from China in the 8th century. Initially, ivory was used primarily for items such as tea spoons and tea lids for the tea ceremony, but its uses expanded and diversified during the Edo period. By the mid-Edo period, ivory was being used for netsuke, hair ornaments, shamisen plectrums and other items. Edo Ivory, or ivory carving from Tokyo, was designated as a Traditional Craft in 1983.