Mother-of-Pearl Inlay Buttons
Buttons crafted from worked shell, specifically mother-of-pearl, featuring polished surfaces and inlay designs for garment fastening. Classified under HTS 9601.90.20.00 as articles of worked shell, distinct from molded plastics or metal parts excluded by chapter notes.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If made from coral or amber
Coral and amber are classified separately as other animal carving materials in 9601.90.4000.
If designed primarily as costume jewelry
Imitation jewelry of base metal or plastics with shell is excluded and covered in Chapter 71.
If incorporated into leather luggage handles
Shell articles as parts of luggage shift to Chapter 42 classification.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify shell origin with CITES documentation if from protected species to avoid wildlife trade violations
• Label products accurately as 'worked shell' to prevent misclassification as imitation jewelry under 7117
• Inspect for metal cores, as base metal parts fall under Section XV per chapter exclusions
Related Products under HTS 9601.90.20.00
Abalone Shell Jewelry Pendants
Hand-carved pendants from abalone shell, polished and drilled for necklace use, showcasing natural iridescence. Falls under 9601.90.20.00 for worked shell articles, not qualifying as jewelry excluded under heading 7117.
Carved Nautilus Shell Picture Frames
Decorative photo frames made from intricately carved nautilus shell sections, assembled with minimal adhesive. HTS 9601.90.20.00 applies to these worked shell articles, separate from furniture or art exclusions in Chapters 94 or 97.
Cowrie Shell Beaded Necklaces
Strands of polished and drilled cowrie shells strung as wearable necklaces, emphasizing natural shell work. Classified in 9601.90.20.00 as worked shell articles, not imitation jewelry per Chapter 71 exclusion.
Oyster Shell Coasters Set
Sets of polished oyster shell slices finished as drink coasters, with natural ridges intact. HTS 9601.90.20.00 covers these household articles of worked shell, not kitchenware or toys excluded elsewhere.
Scallop Shell Wall Inlays
Individually worked scallop shells cut and polished for mosaic wall decorations. As articles of worked shell, they fit 9601.90.20.00, excluding art pieces or building materials.
Clam Shell Knife Handles
Precision-carved clam shell handles for pocket knives, fitted but entered separately. HTS 9601.90.20.00 for worked shell articles, as chapter notes allow separate handles unlike assembled cutlery.