The new policy goes into effect in December and will be enforced beginning in January. eBay will continue to allow antiques that contain only small amounts of ivory on the site, specifying that only items made before 1900 will qualify. Anyone violating the ban, execs promise, can expect to pay the price.

"We work closely with international and domestic law enforcement authorities ... and will assist them with any investigations they initiate," Christin says.

Activist Reaction

has , citing the apparent ease with which traders were circumnavigating laws and using eBay as an easy way to peddle their wares.

"The laws and regulations pertaining to ivory trade are confusing and riddled with loopholes that are exploited by those involved in the international and domestic ivory trade," says Teresa Telecky, policy director of Humane Society International. "eBay's decision to wash its hands of the uncontrollable, bloody ivory trade is commendable and should set an example for others."