A translucent perforated bead showing some form of structure. Microscopic and chemical analysis of this object showed that it was a soft mineral substance. Tiny samples removed from the perforation yielded a white powder which dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid to give a clear solution, with effervescence, with traces of an organic suspension. This suggests that the material is almost certainly shell, perhaps mother of pearl. Shell buttons are known from Anglo-Saxon graves. {1} Shell buttons are known from Anglo-Saxon graves, but so too are they known from medieval, post medieval, Victorian and modern dress fittings. Given that the field has been used for public events such as the Lincolnshire Show and school field events within the modern period it would not be unexpected that casual loss from attire would be incorporated into the topsoil. {2}