Alaskan Gold Rush Petrified Tusk & Nugget Necklace

The Alaska gold rushes inspired a new jewelry style with the usage of unique materials in fine jewelry. Gold nuggets and gold quartz were abundant, as in the California gold rush, while the Alaskan rush unearthed exotic materials like petrified mastodon and walrus tusks. This late 19th-century necklace is a perfect example of an Alaskan gold rush jewel, with a "paisley" of petrified mastodon tusk set in a 14k rosy gold collar and framed in gold nuggets that test around 22k gold. The glossy black tusk pairs wonderfully with the organic luxury of the gold. The pendant is suspended from a 14k gold rope chain. This piece began life as a stick pin, and somewhere along its journey, it was converted into a necklace. Circa 1890.

Details.....The chain is 18" long, and the pendant measures .31" by .53". In Very Good Antique Condition. You should always expect some wear on your vintage and antique jewels; we consider it part of their charm.

Item #N8477