Method for forming composite simulated ivory materials

A method for forming an ivory-like molded material suitable for decorative purposes comprising the following steps:

• providing a flexible container filled with a predetermined amount of a poly(amino acid)/mineral filled composite material consisting essentially of from about 25 to about 75 percent by weight of a mineral filler chosen from the group consisting of hydroxyapatite or tricalcium phosphate, and about 75 to about 25 percent by weight of an .alpha.-amino acid polymer, said mineral filler being essentially uniformly dispersed within said .alpha.-amino acid polymer, the composite formed through an in-situ polymerization of amino acids on the mineral filler;
• isostatically pressurizing said poly(amino acid)/mineral filled composite material within said flexible container at a first pressure of from about 35.000 psi to about 50,000 psi and a first temperature of from about 20.degree. C. to about 40.degree. C., for a duration sufficient to produce a compacted green mold of said composite material;
• and
• isostatically pressurizing said green mold at a second pressure of from about 25,000 psi to about 35,000 psi and a second temperature which is no greater than about 250.degree. C., for a duration sufficient to produce ivory-like molded pieces.