In the 1850’s tortoise shell was the choice material for ladies’ hair
combs. The hawksbill sea turtle, known for their beautiful brown mottled
shell, were put on the endangered list in 1970.
Tortoise shell fakes are rife. One of the first materials to simulate
tortoise shell was horn, derived mainly from various breeds of cattle. A
close examination shows that the mottled effect has been painted on the
surface. It does not go completely through it, as is the case with
natural turtle shell. Celluloid “tortoise shell” was molded not carved.
Written by The Vintage Fashion Guild
*The illegal trade in tortoises and turtles is a global problem. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) lists many species of tortoises and turtles on its appendices. Please educate yourself on the legalities of trading Tortoise and turtle products.
We prohibit our members from engaging in the illegal trade of any endangered species.
Vintage tortoise handbag
Courtesy of poppysvintageclothing@sympatico.ca
Vintage tortoisse hair clip
Courtesy of linn’scollection
Vintage tortoise comb
Courtesy of pastperfectvintage.com
Vintage tortoise shell fan
Courtesy of pastperfectvintage.com
