9L Set of Nine 1930-40s Two-Hole Fish Eye Pearl Diminutive Buttons, 1/4"

Set of nine vintage Mother of Pearl shell buttons. These sew-through buttons have recessed fish eye centers with two holes. Still on their original card, as shown.

Era: 1930s-1940s
Quantity: 9
Size: Diminutive
Measure approximately: 9L, 5.7mm, or 7/32" (close to 1/4")
Attachment: Two-hole sew through, with fish eye recesses

Color: iridescent white mother of pearl, translucent

Material: Genuine Mother of Pearl sourced from the iridescent inner lining of mollusk shells (primarily oysters or freshwater mussels).

Origin: United States, Muscatine, Iowa, known as the "Pearl Button Capital", which dominated production from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century.

Uses: These tiny buttons are designed for lightweight, delicate applications: children's clothing, lingerie, undergarments, or doll clothes. Shirt cuffs, plackets, and collars on blouses or men's dress shirts. Fine blouses, silk dresses, or babywear from the era, where a subtle, elegant pearl look is desired without bulk. The small size make them ideal for close-set fastening on finer fabrics.

Condition: Excellent, display card as shown. Still on the original card, they were likely sold in notions departments for home sewing projects.

MOP buttons highlight early 20th-century industrial history (shell harvesting, button factories) and sustainable natural materials before plastics dominated. The iridescent beauty and tiny scale make them perfect for jewelry crafting, shadow box displays, or themed trays—especially rewarding when preserved on cards like this one.

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