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.

I have virtually examined this vintage multi-strand bracelet featuring elk canine teeth, commonly known as 'elk ivories.' The piece reflects mid-20th-century craftsmanship, likely between 1950 and 1970, and is a classic example of fraternal or western-style jewelry often associated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE). The visual condition is excellent; the teeth exhibit the natural creamy-to-caramel patina expected of authentic organic material, and the gold-tone metalwork shows minimal oxidation despite some surface micro-scratches. The complex three-row linkage and snake-chain construction indicate high-quality production for the era. The market for elk ivory jewelry remains niche but steady, driven by collectors of fraternal history and western Americana. This specific design is rare due to the sheer number of matched teeth used, which significantly elevates its value compared to single-tooth pendants. Factors such as the high degree of symmetry and the preservation of the 'bull's eye' wear patterns on the teeth contribute to its desirability. However, visual inspection alone cannot confirm if the metal is solid gold (e.g., 10k or 14k) or a high-quality gold-filled/plated alloy, as there are no visible hallmarking images provided. Definitive valuation would require an in-person acid or XRF test of the metal and a tactile examination of the teeth to rule out synthetic resin imitations. Documentation regarding the specific lodge provenance would further enhance its marketability. The Bulova box, while vintage, is likely non-original and does not contribute to the item's intrinsic value.