Hi Jane,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
In the 1920s, tortoiseshell became a popular material for fashion accessories like combs, hairpins, and eyeglass frames. Its rich, marbled appearance added a touch of luxury and sophistication. The warm amber tones and smooth finish made it highly desirable, often imitated using celluloid due to conservation concerns.
There may be some restrictions for selling tortoiseshell depending on where you live; for more information, see chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.fws.gov/sites/default/files/documents/news-attached-files/factsheet-can-i-sell-it.pdf
You mention your grandmother was an actress in the 1920s - her name may add some value if you care to share it, otherwise, I've evaluated this without considering any celebrity provenance.
Tortoiseshell bags of similar age and size typically sell for less than $200 at auction but I've not found any with so many compartments or those that have as many of the original fittings, warranting an estimate of $300-500.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An antique Art Deco tortoiseshell evening bag
unattributed maker, possibly French, circa 1920s
Of rectangular form, with compartments for lipstick, face powder (with screen to cover loose powder, comb (included), sovereign or small hankie, mirrored lid, with black suede holder, front clasp.
3-1/2 inches high, 6 inches wide
CONDITION: This bag appears to be in good condition
PROVENANCE: Inherited from grandmother
$300-500*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia