Sarah, I don't think that Kim C (who originated the thread) was contemplating using actual human bone for a violin peg. In your own words, that would be "just too yucky". Besides, where would you source it from ? The mind boggles ...

So, the question of whether human bone would or would not withstand the tension will probably remain for ever theoretical.

The ideal bone for the purpose would be from an alligator, as this is the densest and strongest bone known to mankind.

In case of unavailability of alligator bone, cow-bone(upper thigh) would be a perfectly acceptable substitute.