A particularly elegant pair of antique dress studs, crafted in 9ct gold and set with luminous mother of pearl, each centred with a tiny seed pearl.

The studs have a handsome squared form with softly clipped corners, their mother of pearl faces catching the light beautifully with subtle flashes of silver, blue and pink. Each is framed in warm 9ct gold, with the diminutive seed pearl at its centre providing a wonderfully refined finishing detail.

The reverse retains the original screw fittings and circular back plates, stamped “BRITISH MAKE”, while the side of the gold setting bears a 9ct mark.

Dress studs such as these formed part of the formal gentleman’s wardrobe, designed to fasten a starched shirt front in place of sewn buttons. Mother of pearl was particularly favoured for evening dress, its natural lustre catching candle and lamplight beautifully while remaining understated and impeccably smart.

Today, they are a lovely piece of wearable antique history. Their diminutive scale and geometric form feel remarkably contemporary, while the combination of warm gold, iridescent mother of pearl and tiny seed pearls gives them all the character and craftsmanship of an earlier age. They could be used as an ornate set of cufflinks or converted into earrings.

Material: 9ct gold, mother of pearl and seed pearl

Date: Early 20th century

Origin: British

Marks: 9ct; backs stamped “BRITISH MAKE”

Fastening: Screw fittings with circular back plates

Condition: Very good antique condition, with gentle surface wear and patination commensurate with age.