Antique Edwardian Mother of Pearl Dress Buttons – Set of Six in Box

Antique Edwardian Mother of Pearl Dress Buttons – Set of Six in Fitted Presentation Case c.1900

A charming and beautifully presented set of six antique mother-of-pearl dress or waistcoat buttons, believed to date from the late Victorian to Edwardian period, circa 1890–1915.

Each circular button features a wonderfully iridescent mother-of-pearl face, framed by a warm rose-gold-coloured metal surround. At the centre is an attractive twisted-rope cross design, cleverly imitating the traditional stitching of a sewn button.

The buttons have metal loop fittings to the reverse, accompanied by separate circular retaining clips, allowing them to be attached and removed from a garment.

Presented in a delightful burgundy-coloured fitted case with decorative gold edging and a soft cream interior, this is a lovely surviving example of gentlemen's formal dress accessories from the turn of the 20th century.

A Little Social History

During the Victorian and Edwardian periods, gentlemen's formal attire was an important expression of personal style and social standing. Detachable dress buttons and studs were both practical and decorative, allowing shirts and waistcoats to be laundered without damaging their more elaborate fittings.

Mother-of-pearl was particularly fashionable for these accessories, prized for its beautiful natural lustre and subtle changes of colour in the light.

Sets such as this were often housed in fitted presentation cases, making them attractive gifts as well as useful additions to a gentleman's wardrobe.

Why We Love It

There's something rather special about finding a complete set of these tiny treasures still nestled in their fitted case.

We particularly love the delicate twisted-rope crosses, the soft iridescence of the mother-of-pearl and the contrast with the rich burgundy presentation box.

A wonderful little piece of social history, equally appealing to collectors of antique jewellery, gentlemen's accessories and Edwardian fashion.

Condition

Good antique condition overall, with age-related wear consistent with the believed period.

The mother-of-pearl faces retain their attractive iridescence, with some minor surface marks and natural variations in colour. The metal fittings display areas of tarnishing, discolouration and general age-related wear.

The fitted presentation case shows rubbing and wear to the exterior, including losses to the decorative gold edging. The cream interior has discolouration, impressions and some fabric wear, particularly around the hinges.

The metal components are unmarked, and their composition has not been professionally tested. They are therefore described as gold-coloured metal, with no claim of solid gold content.

Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Details

- Period: Late Victorian / Edwardian, believed c.1890–1915

- Material: Mother-of-pearl and untested gold-coloured metal

- Design: Twisted-rope cross decoration

- Quantity: Six matching dress buttons with separate retaining clips

- Presentation: Burgundy fitted case with cream interior

- Case dimensions: 11.5cm long × 3.5cm wide × 2cm deep

- Maker: Unknown

- Condition: Antique, with age-related wear

Dating and identification are based on our research and experience and are provided to the best of our knowledge.

A delightful surviving set of antique gentlemen's dress accessories, full of Edwardian charm and character.