Why is elk ivory jewelry special?
Elk ivory isn’t just any material – it’s the canine tooth of a bull elk, a trophy each elk hunter treasures. Unlike antler or bone, elk ivories are true ivory (the same material as elephant or walrus tusks) and elk are the only native North American land animals that carry this ivory. That means your jewelry isn’t just symbolic; it’s made from a rare piece of the animal itself. More importantly, elk ivory jewelry is special because of the story behind it. Each ivory represents a memorable hunt, a tradition, and personal pride. When you wear it, you’re wearing the legacy of a great hunt – one that’s unique to you and maybe even to your family’s history in the field. It’s jewelry with a soul and a story, which makes it truly one-of-a-kind.
Can I use the ivory from my own elk for a custom piece?
Absolutely yes. In fact, that’s the heart of what we do. We love working with your own ivories – whether it’s from your first bull, your biggest trophy, or an ivory passed down from Dad or Grandpa. Using your ivory makes the piece 100% yours. When you place an order, you’ll be able to send us your ivory (see the steps above). We carefully design the jewelry around your ivory, preserving its size and character. Rest assured, we handle every customer-supplied ivory with the utmost care, as if it were our own. The result will be a beautiful piece of jewelry showcasing your elk’s ivory – a personal memento you can wear with pride. (And if you have a collection of ivories from multiple hunts, we can craft multiple pieces or even combine two ivories into one design, depending on what you have in mind.)
How do I send in my elk ivories for a custom order?
We make this easy. After you finalize your design with us, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions for sending your ivory. Typically, we recommend wrapping each tooth in soft material (like tissue or bubble wrap) and mailing it in a small, secure box. We’ll give you the address of our workshop and tips on mailing (including insurance and tracking for peace of mind). Many hunters simply drop the package at their local post office or shipping center. Once we receive your ivories, we’ll confirm with you that they arrived safe and sound. Throughout the process, we keep in touch – you won’t be in the dark wondering where your priceless keepsake is. And of course, if you’re local or on a trip through our neck of the woods, you’re welcome to hand-deliver your ivory to us. It’s all about what makes you most comfortable.
How long does it take to get my finished elk ivory jewelry?
Quality craftsmanship takes a little time, but it’s worth the wait. On average, once we have your ivory and design details, it takes about 4–6 weeks to create and finish your custom piece. This timeframe can vary depending on the complexity of the design or seasonal demand, but we’ll give you an estimated completion date when you place your order. Remember, each piece is handmade just for you – we’re crafting something that will last a lifetime, so we don’t rush the process. We promise to keep you updated along the way. And if you have a special date in mind (perhaps a birthday or anniversary to gift the piece), let us know – we’ll do our best to accommodate. In the end, when you open that box and see your elk ivory set in gold or silver, gleaming back at you, you’ll know it was crafted with care and worth every moment of anticipation.
How do I care for my elk ivory jewelry?
Elk ivory is durable – after all, it’s a tooth that has weathered years in the wild – but a little care will keep your jewelry looking its best. We set your ivory securely, but it’s still wise to treat it like the fine jewelry it is. Here are some simple care tips:
- Everyday Wear: Yes, you can wear it daily. Just be mindful if you’re doing heavy work with your hands (if it’s a ring) or other activities that might bang or scratch the ivory. It’s tough, but not indestructible.
- Cleaning: To clean your elk ivory jewelry, use mild soap and warm water with a soft cloth or soft-bristled toothbrush. Gently scrub the metal and the ivory, then rinse and pat dry. Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaners – ivory can be sensitive to acids and alcohol. Never use bleach or ultra-sonic jewelry cleaners on ivory, as they can dull or damage it.
- Storage: When you’re not wearing it, store your piece in a soft pouch or jewelry box, ideally away from extreme humidity or heat. This prevents the metal from scratching and the ivory from drying out or discoloring.
- Polishing: The metal setting (gold or silver) can be polished with a jewelry polishing cloth. The ivory itself can simply be wiped clean; over years, it may develop a slight patina which many hunters feel adds character.
- Check-Ups: Just as you’d check your gear before a hunt, give your ring or pendant a quick look now and then. Make sure the setting is secure. Our craftsmanship is built to last, but if you ever notice the ivory loosening or any issue, contact us. We stand by our work and will gladly tune it up so it’s adventure-ready again.
With a bit of common-sense care, your elk ivory jewelry will stay as stunning as the day you first put it on. In fact, the gentle wear over time will only enhance its character – much like the seasoned hunter who wears it. It’s made to join you on many years of adventures and someday be handed down, carrying all those stories with it.
Still have questions or a wild idea for a custom piece? Reach out to us anytime. At Wyld Jewelry, we speak the language of the outdoors. We’re here to help fellow hunters capture their legendary moments in jewelry that’s as enduring as your passion for the hunt. Wear your legacy, and stay Wyld.