How Much Are Elk Ivory Teeth Worth? A Full Guide

Elk ivory teeth are a prized hunting trophy and can make beautiful jewelry, but how much are they actually worth? As an avid outdoorsman, I’ve done extensive research into elk ivory tooth values to make sure hunters get a fair price for these unique trophies. In this complete guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about determining the value of elk ivory teeth.

What Are Elk Ivory Teeth?

Elk like other deer species, have two large canine teeth called ivories. These ivory teeth are located in the upper jaw and grow throughout the elk’s life. Ivory teeth are longer in bull elk than cow elk, with exceptional bulls having ivories over 4 inches long.

Elk ivory is prized for its beauty and durability. The ivory is typically stained yellow to brown from vegetation and has an intricate pattern of grooves on the surface. Jewelers often use elk ivory to create stunning pendants, rings, and other jewelry.

For hunters, elk ivory teeth are a trophy from a successful hunt. Hunters who harvest an elk with impressive ivories will often have the teeth carved into a trophy mount for display. The ivories can also be turned into jewelry or other craft items as mementos.

Average Price of Elk Ivory Teeth

So how much is a single elk ivory tooth worth? The value depends on several factors which I’ll cover below, but on average, elk ivory teeth sell for:

• $4 – $10 per single tooth
• Matched pairs worth more than single teeth
• Bull teeth worth more than cow teeth
• Premium for teeth over 3 inches long

In general, most elk teeth on the market will fall into the $4 to $10 range per tooth. However, exceptional ivories over 4 inches from mature trophy bulls can sell for $15 or more per tooth. The upper end represents less than 5% of elk ivories on the market.

Factors That Increase Elk Ivory Tooth Value

Several characteristics can increase the value of elk ivory teeth

Size

Longer ivory teeth are more valuable. A matched pair of 5-inch bull elk ivories is a rare find and can be worth over $50 per tooth. In contrast, smaller 1-2 inch cow ivories only fetch around $4 each.

Origin

Ivories from free-range wild elk are preferred to farmed elk Teeth from wilderness areas like Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming tend to bring higher prices at auction.

Condition

Intact ivory teeth with no cracks or repairs will be worth more. Stained or discolored teeth from vegetation can actually increase value by showcasing a natural, rustic look. However, teeth with large chips, repairs, or excessively worn tips will be marked down in price.

Pairs vs Singles

A matching pair of ivories from the same elk is worth more than two single ivories. Collectors and jewelry makers prefer paired teeth for symmetry. Expect a 10-20% premium for matched pairs over buying two single ivories.

Bull vs Cow

Bull elk grow substantially larger ivories than cows. A bull tooth will be thicker, longer, and more robust. Bull ivories are preferred for trophy mounts and command 15-25% higher prices than comparable cow teeth.

Carving/Jewelry

Teeth that have been hand-carved or set into jewelry will be worth more than raw ivories. The value added depends on the skill and reputation of the artisan.

Where to Buy and Sell Elk Ivories

Now that you know what impacts elk ivory value, where can you buy or sell them? Here are some options:

• Hunting forums and classifieds – Many hunting forums like MonsterMuleys.com have classified sections where members buy and sell antlers, ivories, and other trophies. This is a good option to reach fellow hunters.

• Taxidermists – Local taxidermists often buy and sell antlers, ivories, and mounts. They can assess quality and connect you with buyers.

• Outdoor stores – Some archery shops, sportsman stores, and other retailers may buy ivories from hunters. They tend to pay wholesale prices but offer convenience.

• Online auction sites – eBay, specialty auctions, and sites like Major League Antlers run regular auctions for all kinds of antlers, horns, and teeth. Great exposure but you pay seller fees.

• Jewelry makers – Custom jewelry makers and artisans will buy raw ivories to turn into finished pieces. You can often get premium prices selling directly to the end user.

No matter where you choose to buy or sell your elk ivories, make sure you understand their true market value based on the factors above. Don’t let a buyer talk you into too low of a price for your hard-earned hunting trophies!

Should You Have Elk Ivories Carved or Made Into Jewelry?

Since carving and jewelry fabrication increases ivory value, you may be wondering if it’s worthwhile to have your elk teeth carved or set by a jeweler. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

• Creates a custom trophy or keepsake item
• Adds artistic value
• Jewelry maximizes use of small ivories
• Easier to safely store carved ivories
• Can significantly increase resale value

Cons:

• Reduces weight of ivory, which decreases value for collectors
• Permanent modification prevents selling as raw ivory later
• Added time and cost for carving/jewelry creation

In general, I recommend having smaller cow ivories or thin/fragile bull teeth turned into jewelry or carvings. Larger bull ivories over 3 inches are often best left unmodified as collector’s items. Choose an experienced artist and make sure you’ll be happy with their creation!

Storing, Cleaning, and Caring for Elk Ivories

To maintain the value and condition of your elk ivories, proper storage and care is essential. Here are some tips:

• Store loose teeth in soft cloth bags or rigid containers to prevent damage. Avoid letting them bang against each other.

• Keep teeth in a climate-controlled room away from excess moisture to prevent cracking and staining.

• Clean periodically by gently scrubbing with a soft toothbrush and mild soap to remove debris. Avoid harsh chemicals.

• Oil ivories occasionally with food-grade mineral oil to maintain luster and prevent drying out.

• Consider insuring valuable ivories against damage or loss due to theft, fire, etc.

• Take care not to drop or chip carved ivories which can significantly reduce value.

By properly caring for your elk ivories, you can maintain their condition and value as treasured trophies and heirlooms to pass down.

Final Thoughts

Elk ivory teeth make a unique and rewarding trophy for hunters. With bull ivories averaging $4 – $10 each but climbing over $15 for premium specimens, they can be a valuable part of any hunter’s trophy collection. Understand the market value based on size, condition, origin, and other attributes when buying or selling. Consider having smaller cow ivories or thin bull teeth crafted into jewelry or carvings for a custom memento of your hunt. With proper care, elk ivories will remain stunning trophies to cherish for a lifetime.