Mother-of-Pearl Shirt Buttons
Polished buttons made from natural mother-of-pearl shell, typically round with 2 or 4 holes for sewing onto garments like dress shirts. Classified under HTS 9606.29.40.00 as buttons specifically of pearl or shell, distinct from plastic or metal alternatives.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If made of base metal rather than shell
Metal buttons, even if decorated, classify under the base metal heading per Chapter 96 notes prioritizing material.
If containing pearls as principal material
Articles where natural pearls are more than minor constituents fall under Chapter 71 for imitation jewelry.
If sold as part of a garment set for retail
Buttons integral to completed apparel may classify with the garment under Chapter 61/62 instead of separately.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Obtain CITES certification if shell sourced from protected species to ensure compliance with wildlife import regulations
• Label fiber content accurately as 'mother-of-pearl' or 'shell' to avoid misclassification during customs inspection
Related Products under HTS 9606.29.40.00
Pearl Oyster Disk Buttons
Flat, two-hole buttons cut from pearl oyster shells, commonly used on blouses and casual shirts for a subtle shimmer. HTS 9606.29.40.00 applies as they are finished buttons of genuine shell, not molds or blanks.
Mussel Shell Blouse Buttons
Small, lightweight buttons from freshwater mussel shells, perfect for lightweight blouses with delicate seaming. Under HTS 9606.29.40.00 for pearl/shell composition, distinct from Chapter 39 plastics.
Oyster Shell Vest Buttons
Engraved one-hole buttons from oyster shells, suited for waistcoats and vests with decorative fronts. HTS 9606.29.40.00 for shell buttons, allowed precious metal minor parts per notes.
Pearl Shell Sewing Button Assortment
Assorted sizes of mother-of-pearl buttons for general sewing, packaged for retail craft use. Remains in HTS 9606.29.40.00 as shell buttons, not Chapter 95 toys despite assortment.
Abalone Shell Coat Buttons
Iridescent buttons crafted from abalone shell, often shank-style for overcoats and jackets, valued for their natural luster. Falls under HTS 9606.29.40.00 due to primary composition of shell material, excluding synthetic imitations.
Troca Shell Tuxedo Buttons
Elegant, satin-finish buttons from troca (mussel) shells, designed for formal tuxedo jackets with loop shanks. Classified in HTS 9606.29.40.00 for shell-composed buttons intended for sewing onto clothing.