Elk ring history began with Native American cultures using elk ivories (the upper canine teeth) as symbols of strength, longevity, and protection, and continues today as a way to honor the hunt and nature. The tradition evolved from early uses of elk ivory for ceremonial adornment to modern, handcrafted jewelry like rings, which often serve as a unique and symbolic keepsake.
Historical and cultural significance
- Native American traditions: Elk ivories were highly prized for their spiritual meaning, symbolizing strength, resilience, and good luck.
- They were used in ceremonial jewelry, such as elaborate dresses, and as talismans.
- For men, they could signify a successful hunter.
- Legends, like one from the Hidatsa tribe, link elk ivories to their connection with the spirits.
- Early settlers and trade: The arrival of settlers in the late 1800s disrupted elk habitats, sometimes leading to poaching for their ivory.
- This trade provided a new source of ivories for jewelry making.
- Laws were eventually passed to protect elk, but the trade continued.
- Modern jewelry: The tradition continues today, with many people creating and wearing elk ivory rings.
- They are seen as a way to connect with nature and the history of the hunt.
- The rings are handcrafted and unique, often made by artisans who work with the hunter to create a custom piece.
What elk ivory is
- Elk have two upper canine teeth, often called "ivories".
- These teeth are small tusks and are actual ivory.
- The ivories used for jewelry are typically from older elk, when the ivory is solid and at its peak size.
Symbolic meaning of elk ivory jewelry
- Strength and resilience: Many cultures view elk ivories as symbols of the animal's strength and resilience.
- Connection to nature: They can represent a person's connection to the wild and their respect for the natural world.
- The hunt: For many, elk ivory jewelry is a way to commemorate a successful hunt and the story behind it.
- Timeless tradition: The tradition of using elk ivories in jewelry dates back centuries, and the pieces can be passed down through generations.
Where do it get my elk ivory made today?
Why WyldJewelry Matters Today
WyldJewelry is a modern steward of the elk ivory ring tradition. By blending old symbolism, custom craftsmanship, and client collaboration, they ensure this historic art form continues to evolve.
Some points that set them apart:
Client involvement in design. Many customers supply their own ivory from a personal hunt; others simply choose from ethically sourced stock. In either case, the design process is collaborative. (Wild Jewelry)
Master craftsmanship. The rings are handcrafted with attention to metal choice, stone setting, engraving, and finish. (Wild Jewelry)
Narrative emphasis. On their website, Wyld frames each ring not as jewelry, but as a story—a wearable piece of one’s hunt, legacy, and connection to land. (Wild Jewelry)
Transparency and trust. Their process includes shipping kits for ivory, progress photos, and clear timelines. (Wild Jewelry)
If your readers are curious to browse or order, you could direct them to the WyldJewelry website and point out that each signature style (Bugling Royal, Diamond Royal, Nugget, Royal Nugget, Royal Rack and Track) is individually clickable and open to customization. (Wild Jewelry)
WyldJewelry’s Social Media & Community
To stay connected, informed, and inspired, WyldJewelry maintains a presence across social media. While I couldn’t definitively locate all their channels, here’s what’s known / typical:
Twitter / X: They use the handle @wyldjewelry, with mention of their specialty in elk ivory rings. (TwStalker)
Instagram / visual platforms: Based on how they share ring images (e.g. via Pinterest linking back to their Instagram) it’s likely they have an Instagram presence under @wyldjewelry. (Pinterest)
Pinterest / image–driven links: Several images of their rings and product pages appear via Pinterest pins linking back to their product pages. (Pinterest)



