How are shoe buckles worn today?

Georgian and 18th-century shoe buckles were originally designed to clip onto buckled shoes using a steel prong and fitting on the reverse. Today, collectors often adapt them or display them as decorative objects, though some historic pairs can still be mounted onto modern evening shoes.

What periods do these pieces date from?

The pieces span several centuries, beginning with 18th-century Georgian shoe buckles and white jade belt pieces. Later examples move through Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco periods right up to mid-20th-century retro platinum designs.

Are these items made of solid gold?

Many pieces on this page are fashioned from solid precious metals, including 18ct gold, 15ct gold, and sterling silver. Other examples utilise silver gilt, gilded metal, or specialised regional techniques like Straits Chinese gilt silver.