Carved Whale Tooth Appraisal

Sperm Whale Tooth with Handwritten Markings

This specimen is a large, genuine Sperm Whale tooth characterized by its curved, conical shape and organic texture. The tooth exhibits a natural range of ivory and cream tones, with significant longitudinal striations and grooves along the surface of the root area. The tip or crown of the tooth appears smoother and more polished, showing a deeper amber-yellow patina indicative of significant age and natural calcification. A standout feature of this specific item is the handwritten provenance or cataloging notes in blue or teal ink, which seem to mention 'CAPT. IVAN' and 'Aug 3', suggesting it may have been a historical nautical souvenir or part of a mid-20th-century collection. Physical condition shows jagged edges and minor losses at the base, likely where it was extracted from the whale's jaw. The material is dense and heavy, showing the classic 'Schreger lines' or cross-hatching when viewed closely at the base, confirming its status as true ivory rather than a resin cast. There is some surface staining and internal cracking (checks) consistent with natural drying over several decades. Its size and curvature suggest it came from a mature bull sperm whale, likely dating to the late 19th or early 20th century.