“Nicolette” Vintage Gold Chanel Crystal Compass Button Pendant

A Bomber Jacket with a Softer Side

In the 1980s, Chanel took the bomber jacket, a rather masculine, utilitarian piece, and did what Chanel does best. They softened it. Crystal and pearl encrusted buttons turned a streetwear staple into something worthy of the Rue Cambon. This compass button once fastened one of those jackets.

Rescued from the Parisian Fashion Auctions

My contact in Paris is a fashion historian, and when he finds something at the famous fashion auctions that he thinks I’ll love, he emails me. These buttons were the subject of one of those emails. I knew the moment I saw them that they couldn’t stay in a box. A piece of Chanel design history deserves to be seen, and worn, again.

A Compass in Gold and Crystal

The design is a compass of open spokes, ringed in sparkling crystals, with a black enamel centre carrying the double C. The button itself is the original Chanel gold tone, with all the warmth and glamour that suggests. I then finished the sterling silver setting in rich 24 carat gold vermeil, so the whole piece glows as one.

Open Back, Open to the Light

I design my pendants with open backs, and this button suits that so well. Light travels through the compass, and you can still see the original button shank at the back. That small detail is the signature of Porsha Bella, a reminder that this was once part of a garment.

Handcrafted in Solid Sterling Silver

Every piece is designed and made by me, from concept to finish, with more than 20 years of gold and silversmithing behind it. The setting is solid sterling silver, finished by hand in 24 carat gold vermeil.

Why You’ll Want It in Your Collection

This is wearable history. It’s for the woman who loves France, who knows that a designer detail says more than a logo, and who likes to wear a story. You can dress it up for an evening out or dress it down with a crisp white shirt and jeans, and it will start a conversation either way. It’s also a rare chance to own a genuine piece of 1980s Chanel in a form you can wear every day.

Your jewellery journey begins with a piece of Porsha Bella wearable history.

What is 24ct Yellow Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil is a layer of real gold over solid sterling silver. To be called vermeil, the gold must be at least 10ct and plated at a certain thickness. At Porsha Bella Jewellery, I use 24ct yellow gold, the purest, richest toned gold, for a luxurious finish that’s both elegant and enduring.

Caring for Your Gold Vermeil Jewellery

Gold vermeil is a thick layer of 24ct gold over sterling silver.   Luxurious, but delicate. To keep it looking beautiful:

• Avoid water, sweat, perfumes, and lotions.

• Remove before showering, swimming, or exercising.

• Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth,  no harsh cleaners.

• Store pieces separately in a dry, cool place.

Over time, gentle fading is natural. It adds character, but re-plating is always an option if you’d like a refresh.

Now for the legal stuff:-

Please note, all buttons used in my creations are antique, vintage, or second hand, and will naturally show signs of their previous lives.  Such as gentle surface marks, tiny dents, enamel wear, or soft tarnishing.
Each button is carefully tested and securely set, but as these treasures can be well over a century old, they remain delicate and should be treated with the same care as any fine antique.

While the jewellery itself is professionally handcrafted from solid precious metals using traditional goldsmith techniques, designed to last a lifetime, the historic buttons, pearls, and crystals within these designs are inherently more fragile. Their age and patina are what make them so special.
To preserve your piece, please avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, perfume, or impact. Treat it gently, and it will bring you many years of beauty and admiration.

As each piece is entirely handmade and one of a kind, I’m unable to offer refunds, exchanges, or replacements for changes of mind, or for age related wear such as button cracking, crystal or pearl loss, or plating lift that may occur over time.

If you ever have concerns about caring for your jewellery, please don’t hesitate to contact me for personalised advice.

Designer buttons have no affiliation with the original fashion houses. I take great care to ensure all branded buttons are genuine and sourced from reputable second hand suppliers & fashion historians.  Porsha Bella designer button jewellery is not sold on behalf of, or in connection with, any brand.

Your purchases are shipped via La Poste France using international tracking.
Please note, shipments are not insured against loss or damage unless requested. By completing your purchase, you agree to uninsurable shipping.
If you would prefer insured shipping, please contact me before checkout for a personalised quote.