Elk Tooth Bracelet Appraisal

Vintage Elk Tooth and Gold-Tone Multi-Strand Bracelet

This is a highly unique vintage bracelet featuring genuine ivory elk teeth, also known as 'elk ivories' or 'whistlers,' set in a decorative gold-tone metal framework. The design showcases three rows of ivory canine teeth linked together with circular metal jump rings, transitioning into a triple-strand flexible snake chain that terminates at a hinged clasp. The focal point of the piece is a stylized centerpiece featuring two larger elk teeth arranged in a curved, wing-like formation. The color of the teeth ranges from a creamy off-white to a light yellowish brown, typical of natural age and wear for this organic material. The metal appears to be gold-plated or high-quality gold-tone costume metal, showing a bright polished finish with some minor oxidation and surface scratches consistent with the mid-20th century (circa 1950s-1970s). The construction is complex, involving multiple linkage points to create a flexible, wearable structure. It is presented in an orange velvet-lined vintage Bulova box, though the jewelry itself is likely a custom or regional piece often associated with the Elks fraternal organization (BPOE) rather than being a Bulova-manufactured product. The condition is excellent with all teeth securely mounted and the clasp remaining functional, showing professional craftsmanship in the setting of the organic elements.