Shell Cufflinks Appraisal

Octagonal Mother-of-Pearl Cufflinks

This item consists of a pair of octagonal cufflinks, likely dating from the early to mid-20th century, possibly the Art Deco or Edwardian period given their style. Each cufflink features a central circular inlay of mother-of-pearl, exhibiting a characteristic iridescent luster with subtle variations in color, ranging from creamy white to pale grey with hints of pink and blue. The mother-of-pearl is set within a dark, possibly enameled or patinated metal ring, which in turn is surrounded by a raised, textured band with a reeded or mille-grain edge. This textured band is then framed by the primary octagonal metal bezel, which appears to be a silver-toned metal, such as sterling silver, white gold, or nickel silver, showing some aged patina throughout. The octagonal shape itself adds a geometric elegance to the design. The construction suggests a well-made piece, with visible attention to detail in the setting and design elements. On the reverse side, though not fully visible, these would typically feature a hinged or swivel mechanism to secure them through a shirt cuff. There appears to be some minor surface wear consistent with age and use, particularly on the metal surfaces, evident as slight dulling or scratches, and a natural patina has developed on the metal, enhancing its vintage appearance. No specific maker's marks or signatures are discernible from the provided image, but the overall craftsmanship indicates a quality accessory.