I agree with Paul that it is made off a Turban shell, most probably Turbo
sarmaticus or an other large species with a brownish outer layer.

Henk K. Mienis

----- Original Message -----
From: "Paul Monfils" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Sunday, August 18, 2002 9:19 PM
Subject: Re: Shell Button Help


> I'm not certain what the button was made from, but it was not a cowrie.
It
> shows a nacreous (pearly) layer showing through in several places, and
> cowries do not have pearly layers. My first guess would be a turban shell
> (Turbo), possibly the South African Turbo sarmaticus.
>
> Paul M.
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Larry Watrous" <[log in to unmask]>
> To: <[log in to unmask]>
> Sent: Sunday, August 18, 2002 2:52 PM
> Subject: Shell Button Help
>
>
> > Any shell button experts want to take a stab at this one?
> >
> > This request is from a St. Louis area resident who is apparently working
> on
> > a shell button classification.
> >
> > 'As a member of the National Button Society, I have been asked to revise
a
> > classification booklet of shell buttons. I have solicited buttons to
> > photograph for the booklet and received one this morning that I need
help
> > identifying. A year ago, we took our daughter to the St. Louis Shell
Show
> so
> > I immediately, today, looked up your website. My first guess on the
button
> > is a cowrie but with the polished spots it is hard to tell. The shell is
> two
> > inches long and is set in a metal mounting with a button shank. I'm
> assuming
> > the bottom of the shell was sawed flat before mounting. Thank you so
> much. -
> > Shirley Case [log in to unmask]
> >
> > Shirley's photo of the button is at
> > http://www.lwatrous.com/unknown/button.htm
> >
> > Copy replies to Shirley's email address.
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Larry Watrous
> > St. Louis, MO
>
>