dIvoires

dIvoires is a term that can refer to several things, most notably the country officially known as Côte d'Ivoire, formerly Ivory Coast. This West African nation is situated on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea. Its capital city is Yamoussoukro, and its economic hub is Abidjan. Côte d'Ivoire is a significant producer of cocoa, coffee, and palm oil, playing a vital role in the global agricultural market. The country's diverse ethnic groups, including the Baoulé, Bete, and Sénoufo, contribute to its rich cultural tapestry, evident in its music, art, and traditions. French is the official language, though many indigenous languages are also spoken.

Beyond the country, "ivoires" in French translates to "ivories," referring to the material derived from the tusks of animals, primarily elephants. Historically, ivory was highly prized for its beauty and was used to create sculptures, jewelry, and decorative objects. However, due to the devastating impact of poaching on elephant populations, international trade in ivory is now heavily restricted and largely prohibited under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The term can also appear in other contexts, such as in art or historical discussions where the material itself is the subject.