1950s Bulova Gold-Tone and Elk Bone Figural Necklace

This is a highly unique mid-century necklace featuring a combination of gold-tone metal and natural organic components, identified as elk bone. The piece is constructed with a dual-strand golden snake chain that transitions into a decorative frontal section. The frontal area consists of two rows of small, irregularly shaped carved bone segments linked by gold-tone rings. At the center is a substantial focal pendant featuring two curved, horn-like bone elements that meet at the top, supporting a fringe of smaller vertical bone dangles resembling teeth or phalanges. The bone material exhibits a natural cream-to-ivory coloration with subtle yellowing and varied porosity consistent with age. The necklace is secured by a textured gold-tone figure-eight or infinity loop clasp. Given the Bulova attribution and 1950s style, the craftsmanship shows typical mid-century costume jewelry techniques, including articulated jump rings and a snake chain. The overall condition appears excellent with minor age-appropriate patina on the metal and organic variations in the bone finish. The design represents an unusual 'primitive' or 'safari' aesthetic popular in the mid-20th century, elevating taxidermy-style elements into formal jewelry.

Based on my visual examination of this mid-century necklace, I find it to be a compelling example of the 'primitive' aesthetic trend prevalent in the 1950s. The piece features a dual-strand snake chain and carved organic components, identified as elk bone. The condition appears to be excellent, showing consistent coloration and minimal oxidative distress to the gold-tone metal plating. The craftsmanship, particularly the articulation of the bone fringe, reflects high-quality costume jewelry production methods typical of the era. While Bulova is primarily renowned for horology, their ventures into high-end costume jewelry are well-documented among collectors, and pieces utilizing such specific organic materials are rare. Market demand for figural mid-century jewelry remains strong, particularly for items that bridge the gap between traditional costume and avant-garde design. Comparable pieces from high-end labels like Trifari or Schiaparelli often command higher premiums, but the unique material choice here adds a 'curiosity' value that bolsters its desirability. Limitations: From digital images alone, I cannot definitively verify the species of the bone or the depth of the gold plating. A physical inspection would be required to search for hidden maker marks or signatures, which are often concealed on the clasp or terminal links. Furthermore, testing the metal for gold content via X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and a microscopic analysis of the bone's Haversian canals would be necessary to confirm authenticity and material origin. Provenance documentation regarding its original purchase would significantly enhance its historical valuation.