15L Set of Twelve 1950s Blue Abalone Shell Shank Buttons, 3/8"

Set of Twelve Vintage 1950s Genuine Abalone Shell Buttons

This gorgeous matched set of twelve vintage buttons showcases the luxurious natural shimmer of genuine abalone shell. Crafted from real abalone (pāua) nacre in the mid-20th century, each petite domed button features a deep navy-blue base illuminated by swirling flashes of silvery blue, teal, and soft pearl. The colors shift beautifully in the light, highlighting the shell’s natural iridescence enhanced by careful polishing.

Measuring approximately 15 lignes (about 9.5 mm or 3/8 inch), these small-scale buttons are ideal for blouses, vintage garment restoration, doll clothing, fine sewing projects, or jewelry making. Their size and luminous surface make them perfect for delicate, detailed work while still offering striking visual impact.

Condition is very good vintage overall, with strong matching across the set, vibrant color play, and excellent natural luster. One button has a small edge chip, a common and expected age-related flaw in natural shell material, which does not affect wearability or overall appearance. Subtle organic variations are inherent to genuine abalone and confirm the authenticity of the material.

Dating to the mid-century era, these buttons were produced in the late 1940s to 1950s, following World War II, when Japan re-emerged as a leading exporter of high-quality shell buttons. Using imported abalone shell from the Pacific region, Japanese workshops became renowned for their precision cutting, fine polishing, and consistent sizing, supplying the global fashion industry with luminous shell buttons for blouses and dresses. This postwar revival of craftsmanship made genuine abalone buttons both fashionable and accessible, and examples like these were widely used in mid-century garments.

Measure approximately 15L, 15 lignes, 9.5 mm, or 3/8".

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