Shark Tooth Cufflinks and Jewelry - A Fashion History

The Allure of Shark Tooth Cufflinks

Shark teeth hold a strange allure for many people. Their triangle shape, serrated edges, and smooth texture are unmistakable. We recognize shark teeth even if we've never seen a living shark up close. These distinctive teeth spark our imagination and fascination. When incorporated into jewelry like cufflinks, shark teeth become an eye-catching conversation piece.

The History of Shark Teeth Jewelry

Using shark teeth in jewelry and art has a long history across many cultures. Archaeologists have found jewelry made with shark teeth dating back to ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt. However, shark teeth jewelry seems to have peaked in popularity during the Victorian era. Victorians developed an obsession with beachcombing and collecting natural treasures like shells, sea glass, and shark teeth. It became fashionable to turn these items into jewelry and display one's finds. Shell cameos, etched sea glass brooches, and shark tooth cufflinks were markers of status. Wearing shark tooth jewelry showed one's financial means to travel seaside and leisure time to walk the beaches.

Shark Tooth Jewelry as Natural History

Some view collecting shark teeth and shark tooth jewelry as a way to appreciate natural history. Shark teeth connect us to the prehistoric past and nature's vast timeline. Having such an object makes epochs like the Cretaceous tangible. A shark tooth cufflink allows us to bring history into the modern world. Other shark tooth jewelry serves as a conservation reminder. Many sharks face threats from overfishing and habitat loss. Keeping their teeth near can inspire us to take more environmentally-minded action.

The Allure of Beachcombing

Beachcombing satisfies the human urge to explore, discover, and collect. Walking along the shoreline with eyes cast down is relaxing yet exciting. What treasures will the tide bring in today? The perfect sand dollar? An intact whelk shell? A rare shark tooth? Beachcombing lets us surround ourselves with natural beauty for free. Plus, there is an addictive thrill to never knowing what you might find. For some, putting those found objects into jewelry like shark tooth cufflinks helps keep the beachcombing spirit alive every day.

Choosing Shark Tooth Jewelry

If you are drawn to shark tooth cufflinks or pendants, there are a few considerations for choosing the right piece:

• Species of shark: research to find your favorite species. Great white and megalodon teeth are popular choices.
• Tooth size: larger teeth make more statement pieces.
• Tooth quality: look for intact, undamaged teeth without discoloration.
• Mounting style: teeth can be wire wrapped, prong set, or bezel set depending on the look you want.
• Metal: silver, gold, and leather cords all complement shark teeth.

Wearing Shark Tooth Jewelry

Once you've acquired the perfect shark tooth cufflinks or necklace, how do you style them? For men, shark tooth cufflinks lend a rugged yet sophisticated touch to any French or barrel cuffed shirt. They pair nicely with casual collared shirts or dressier button-downs. For women, shark tooth pendants add an organic flair. Layer them with other pendants for a bohemian vibe. Or pair them with a basic tee or blouse for an edgy beachy look. Shark tooth jewelry makes any outfit feel more adventurous and free-spirited.

Shark Tooth Jewelry as Art

Beyond clothing accessories, shark teeth also inspire striking art pieces. Sculptures, wall hangings, and décor using shark teeth and jaws create fascinating natural history-inspired art. Shark teeth are also incorporated into elaborate jewelry as the central focus. These pieces push the boundaries of jewelry-making into art territory. For example, artist Allison Ciodock designs stunning bracelets by shaping silver, gold, and precious gemstones around shark teeth. The raw organic texture of the tooth contrasts beautifully with the polished shine of surrounding metals and gems. This demonstrates that shark teeth can be much more than simple pendants or cufflinks. In the hands of creative jewelers, a shark tooth transforms into a meaningful one-of-a-kind objet d'art.

The Enduring Allure of Shark Teeth

Shark tooth jewelry and art perfectly capture mankind's simultaneous awe, enthusiasm, and uneasiness towards sharks. These creatures have patrolled the oceans for millions of years, predating even the dinosaurs. They inspire fear but also grudging respect. A shark tooth allows us to harness some of the shark's formidable power as a personal talisman. Victorians started a craze of wearing beachcombed shark teeth that persists to this day. Now modern jewelers are discovering new ways to honor the shark by immortalizing its fierce teeth in precious metals and gemstones. Our urge to turn shark teeth into art expresses humanity's complex relationship with this ancient apex ocean predator.

FAQs

Where do people find shark teeth for jewelry?

Most shark teeth used in jewelry come from fossil teeth that are beachcombed or dug from ancient fossil beds. Shark teeth that wash up on shorelines today can also be used if they are in good condition.

What are the most common species used?

Great white shark teeth and fossilized megalodon teeth are popular choices. Their large size and serrated edges make exciting statement pieces.

How expensive is shark tooth jewelry?

Pricing varies widely. Simple wire-wrapped pendants can cost $20-30. More elaborate gold and gemstone pieces by artisan jewelers can cost hundreds of dollars.

How do I care for shark tooth jewelry?

Avoid getting leather and metal mountings wet. When cleaning, gently brush teeth with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Rinse and air dry teeth thoroughly.

Is shark tooth jewelry ethical?

If sourced responsibly from fossil deposits or beaches, shark tooth jewelry supports eco-friendly collecting. Be sure living shark teeth are not being harvested.