Elk Ivories (Canine Teeth)

This pair of specimens consists of two elk 'ivories,' which are the vestigial upper canine teeth of a Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus canadensis). The specimens exhibit the classic morphology of elk canines, featuring a smooth, rounded 'pearly' crown and a rougher, porous root structure. The crowns are ivory-white to cream in color, with the upper specimen showing a prominent 'bullseye' or caramel-colored staining on the occlusal surface, a highly desirable trait formed by the elk's diet and chemical reactions in the mouth. The lower specimen appears more weathered with a lighter coloration and a more prominent, jagged root section composed of dentin and cementum. Both pieces show no signs of modern lapidary work, such as polishing or mounting, suggesting they are in a raw, 'harvested' state. The size is consistent with standard mature elk canines, measuring approximately 1 to 1.5 centimeters in length. Regarding condition, they appear stable but possess natural irregularities and organic debris typical of field-recovered biological materials. These items are traditionally used in Western jewelry, specifically for 'elk tooth' rings and watch fobs, a style popularized in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE).

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