From its roots as an on-board hobby for idle whalers in the nineteenth century, the art of carving scrimshaw has evolved over the years. Specifically, scrimshaw jewelry is one of its unique (and now highly collectible) results. By nature unique, each piece of scrimshaw jewelry is especially coveted since there are severe restrictions on creating and selling new scrimshaw items.
Scrimshaw jewelry is made either from bone, tooth or ivory. Whatever type of jewelry you’re interested in, there are going to be some scrimshaw versions available from online antiques and collectibles vendors at any given time. Scrimshaw jewelry may be found in an impressive range of styles and pieces: Rings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, brooches, and more are often seen for sale at a range of prices.
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About Scrimshaw Jewelry Prices
The value of a piece of scrimshaw will depend on its age, style, design, and size. An important thing to keep in mind is legality. Depending on the source, scrimshaw jewelry is legal if it was made before either 1973 or 1989. Reputable dealers will only sell items they know to be within these ranges (which is known as “pre-ban”); check buyer feedback ratings to know the reputation of a scrimshaw jewelry dealer.
A scrimshaw is also legal if it was created by a native Alaskan Indian, no matter when. Newly-produced items, no less beautiful and unique but sometimes less pricey, can be found from this category in online marketplaces.
Faux and Reproduction Scrimshaw Jewelry
Note that there are also “faux scrimshaw” pieces available from many vendors. These should be clearly marked by the vendor as such. Such sales are often lower-priced than true scrimshaw. They can be a fantastic and entirely acceptable way of getting a great-looking piece of jewelry (or other scrimshaw item) for a fraction of the cost. If authenticity is less important to you (say, for economic or ethical reasons) then consider faux scrimshaw.
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Buying Scrimshaw Jewelry from Online Vendors
The fun thing about buying scrimshaw jewelry is that the pieces are so unique and the selection so ever-changing that browsing through online listings is always an enjoyable and different experience. Different designs and depictions, plus the individual style of the artist, speak to different buyers, just like jade carvings do. It’s just a matter of imagining each piece in your own collection and seeing if it feels right for you – then acting fast to order it since you won’t be the only one attracted to this piece.
Whether you want something pre-ban or a newer scrimshaw, take a look at what’s available and shop smarter!
