Vintage Carved Bone or Faux-Bone Tribal Style Safari Bead Necklace
Unbranded · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Fashion Jewelry
Era / Decade
1970s-1980s Boho/Safari Revival
Material
Likely carved bovine bone or heavy resin/celluloid, wood spacers, base metal screw clasp.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The beads show natural variations and some slight surface grime. The stringing appears intact but should be checked for tension near the clasp.
Demand Level
Moderate. Boho and natural material jewelry have a steady niche market, particularly during summer/vacation seasons.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$18.00 - $35.00
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00 (comparable modern artisanal pieces)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded carved bone or resin necklaces typically sell for $15-$25 on eBay and up to $40 on curated Etsy shops depending on the complexity of the carvings.
Description
A striking vintage 1970s-era tribal style necklace featuring graduated cream-colored beads. The piece includes a mix of smooth spherical beads, bicone spacers, and larger statement beads with hand-carved or etched linear 'zebra' patterns in dark brown/black. Separated by thin dark wood or vulcanized rubber rondelle spacers, finishing with a secure vintage barrel screw clasp. Measures approximately 22-24 inches.
Key Features
Neutral color palette, trendy boho/safari aesthetic, vintage screw-top clasp, hand-carved appearance, graduated bead design.
Authenticity Indicators
The presence of a barrel screw clasp is a common indicator of mid-to-late 20th-century costume jewelry. Confidence Level: High (for vintage status, not as a luxury brand).
Flaws to Note
Minor surface wear; slight patina on metal clasp; one or two beads may have natural 'pores' or small fissures common in organic bone materials.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage items), eBay (broadest reach), or Depop (appeals to younger buyers looking for 'Y2K' or 'Vintage Boho' styles).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Boho,' 'Safari,' 'Tribal,' 'Eclectic,' and 'Naturalist.' Photograph against a dark background to make the cream beads pop. Mention the barrel clasp as it is a selling point for vintage enthusiasts.