30L Set of Three 1940-50s Pearly White Layered Four-Hole Buttons, 3/4"

Set of three 1940-1950s vintage pearlized plastic face with opaque white backing. Four-hole sew-through buttons.

Era: 1940s to 1950s, when imitation pearl plastics surged in popularity for everyday and semi-formal clothing as manufacturers sought cost-effective alternatives to natural trochus or abalone shell.

Size: Medium
Quantity: 3
Measure approximately: 30L, 30 lignes, 19 mm, or 3/4"
Attachment: four-hole

Material: These are made from an early thermoplastic, most likely a layered combination of urea-formaldehyde or phenolic resin for the opaque base and a pearlized celluloid or similar acetate overlay for the front, incorporating mica flakes or pearl essence pigments to achieve the marbled imitation mother-of-pearl effect. This two-layer molding technique was common in vintage button production to enhance durability and visual appeal while keeping costs low, correcting earlier assumptions of single-piece molding.

Color: The fronts feature a semi-translucent pearlescent finish with subtle iridescent glow and wavy nacre-like marbling that imitates natural shell, while the backs are solid opaque white.

A defining line visible on the edges reveals a layered construction, where a thin pearlescent top layer is bonded over an opaque white base, likely designed to maintain the lightness and brightness of the marbled pearly fronts even when sewn onto darker fabrics by preventing show-through or color bleeding.

Origin: These were likely manufactured in the United States or Europe, with the United States (particularly New England or Midwest button factories) or Germany/France as strong possibilities, since those regions led in producing high-quality pearlized plastic buttons for domestic and export markets during that period.

Uses: These buttons are suitable for restoring or replacing missing ones on vintage mid-century coats, jackets, blazers, shirts, or dresses where an imitation pearl look is appropriate and budget-friendly. They also work well for modern sewing projects, upcycled fashion, minimalist designs, or crafting that calls for a subtle, elegant neutral button with vintage character.

Condition: Excellent matching condition.

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