Are button pearls real or fake?
Find out the truth behind jeweled pearl buttons for decorating—plus why they’re the secret to instant style.

So, you’ve stumbled upon something called a button pearl and you’re wondering: are button pearls real or fake? Great question, because the answer is… both!
Yep, sometimes button pearls are 100% real, straight from the oyster world—slightly flat on one side and rounded on the other, like a chic little macaron. Other times, they’re fake button pearls made of glass, shell, or resin with a pearly coating. But don’t panic: fake doesn’t mean ugly.
In fact, fakes can be fabulous (and way cheaper than financing an actual oyster farm).
Why Real Button Pearls Are Special
Real button pearls are basically Mother Nature’s way of saying, “You don’t need to be perfectly round to be gorgeous.” They’re perfect in earrings, rings, and cufflinks because the flat side sits neatly against the skin. They also give pearl buttons that timeless, slightly royal vibe—like something Jackie Kennedy would casually wear while walking the dog.
The Case for Fake Button Pearls
Now, before we shame the imposters, let’s give fake button pearls some credit. They’re affordable, lightweight, and honestly? Most people can’t tell the difference unless they’re nibbling the pearls (not recommended). Plus, fake button pearls let you save your budget for the important things—like coffee runs, shoes, and maybe a few jeweled buttons for your denim jacket.
From Pearls to Fancy Buttons
Here’s the fun part: whether real or fake, button pearls are just one piece of the puzzle. Pair them with jeweled buttons, jewelled buttons (yes, spelling wars again), and fancy buttons for decorating, and suddenly your closet looks less “clearance rack” and more “couture.” Add a pearl button to a cardigan, jeweled buttons to a clutch, or even sew fancy buttons onto throw pillows. Voilà—instant glam.
So, are button pearls real or fake?
The answer is: both, and both are fabulous. Real ones bring timeless elegance, fake ones bring playfulness and practicality. And when you mix them with jeweled buttons, jewelled buttons, and fancy buttons for decorating, you’ve got the recipe for style that’s effortless, chic, and fun.
✨ Ready to play with pearls and buttons? Dive into my Jewelled Buttons Collection and find the perfect sparkly little treasures to decorate your world.