Any zoologists in the house?

In my collection is a rather different 19th century watch chain. How different? The watch chain consists of animal teeth, from what I was told, each capped with rose gold. My question is what species of animal, and, if real teeth? My guess, according to my research, is siberian tiger, or lion. What's your guess? Any members with knowledge of animal teeth?

Take a look!

Here's a closer view of teeth.

Hi Lindell,

Watch chain measures 10 1/2" in length to T-bar, added drop (3 additional teeth) measures 3 inches.

Each tooth measures approximately one inch in length. One larger tooth at end of added drop measures approximately 1 l/2 inches. Diameter at widest point of teeth measures a tad less than one inch.

Wild huh? Can anyone identify species of animal? The chain is not heavy. A yellowish coloration of teeth, no pearly whites here!

Comments?

Stephanie,

I have a feeling that the "teeth" are actually manufactured from bone made to look like teeth. They really don't match any real animal that I can think of. The canine teeth of larger predators (bear, wolf) don't quite look like that. They don't look quite right for dolphin or whale either. But this is simply a guess without having them in hand.

It's a great chain and one I'd give my eye teeth for (sorry, couldn't resist the pun)

Hi Mike,
Hmmmm, if true wonder why they would manufacture teeth from bones? Whose bones?

I'm guessing they are teeth of a tiger, possibly siberian tiger, or maybe lions teeth.

Take a look!

Siberian tiger skull, check out those fangs!
Hmmm!

Lion teeth. Take a look!

Other comments?

Update!

While on an out of town excursion yesterday, I wore the watch chain. A man stopped me and asked about the chain. I offered my ideas of identification of teeth. He stated he thought the teeth were definitely from "cats"; but was unsure what species. He also said Siberian tigers are almost extinct as there are only 500 in existence.

What do you think?

I'm no expert, but the cat family does look right. Be sure to let us know if you find out anything definitive.

Elk teeth