Victorian 10K Gold Elk Head BPOE Lodge Pendant Charm

This Victorian 10k gold oval medallion pendant features the head of an elk with his face tilted toward the sky, as if mid-call. The sculptural, bas relief elk has majestic antlers and a diamond for his eye that gives the pendant a beautiful sparkle. The 10k gold has an acid wash finish and a wonderful patina, for a striking matte surface that emphasizes the antique nature of the piece. 

Circa 1890, the piece was originally a cuff link that we converted by removing the back and adding a 14k gold bail. The pendant’s emblem belongs to the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, a fraternal order that was founded by a group of actors and entertainers in 1868. Still active today, the Elks Lodge is known as a quiet network of good deeds and generosity. An apt symbol, the elk is a majestic creature—powerful but not a predator—and a ruler of the forest. This pendant can be worn as a reminder to be the most benevolent and generous version of yourself. The original cufflinks were made by M. Hammerslough, a jeweler in Anaconda, Montana. 

Th pendant measures 1” x 5/8”, plus an additional 5 x 7 mm bail. It weighs 2.65 grams. Unmarked, but acid tests as 10k gold. The bail acid tests as 14k.