One of a Kind! This gorgeous and rare gold toned steel cut hand beaded shoe buckle was made circa early 1900. Stitched onto a dark red suede leather with gold tone snap closures.
Buckle measures: 2 x 2.5 inches
Adjustable lengths: 6 inches, 7.5 inches, 8 inches
History: Popular between the 18th century and the end of the 1930's. Tiny, multi-faceted steel beads were polished to resemble glittering gemstones and then riveted to a base plate to create a sea of sublte, dark sparkle. It was worn as a substitute for confiscated (or hidden) diamond jewelry when french King Louis XV "requested" that citizens donate their precious gems and jewelry to help fund the 'Seven Years War'. The popularity of cut steal may have also been due to Sumptuary laws which limited who could wear precious metals and diamonds.