Antique 19th-Century Bone and Shell Buttons

Antique bone and shell buttons, likely from the mid-to-late 19th century. Bone buttons were commonly used for undergarments, workwear, and utilitarian garments due to their durability. Made from cattle bone, they were cut, shaped, and polished. Some buttons in this collection appear to be shell, likely mother-of-pearl. Shell buttons were used on finer garments. The variation in color and wear reflects age and use. 

*Featured item only included in sale, other items are my photo helpers :-)