The similarities between a narwhal's tusk and a unicorn's horn have led to the narwhals' nickname of "sea unicorns," but the narwhal's tusk is not made of the same highly sought material. Legends surrounding narwhals have nevertheless attributed magical characteristics to these remarkable tusks, such as neutralizing poison. Collectors and artisans also value the tusks as an elegant crafting material useful for carvings and other works of art.