A Sterling Example

The Art of Crafting Fine Western Belt Buckles

There is often a vivid story behind a western belt buckle that speaks of the tradition and rich heritage of cowboy life. A cowboy is extremely proud of his buckles and often passes them down to his children or grandchildren. A trophy buckle, obtained by winning at a rodeo, is a right of passage and a keepsake with strong sentimental value.

Since the 1960s, buckle making has been elevated to an art form. Most western-style belt buckles are made of sterling silver and solid gold, and many are adorned with precious stones, intricate filigree work and engraving.

Buckles are very personal pieces of jewelry. They can be the more expensive - and expressive - part of an man's attire. Even the most rugged man will choose to wear an ornate belt buckle, often before he'll adorn a tie. Big and bold or tasteful and sophisticated, buckles reflect the personality of the wearer.

The art of creating custom buckles lives on through three renowned designers available through Desperado Couture: Silver King Silversmiths, Douglas Magnus Studios and Vogt Sterling and Leather Company.

Sliver King Silversmiths

At the young age of 12, Miguel DÁvalos began his career in leather crafting making shoes with his older brother. In the 1970s, Miguel began working with silver. Self-taught through trial and error, Miguel learned the art of silversmithing, including hand engraving. In 1975, Silver King Silversmiths was formed.

Through the years, Silver King has earned a reputation for quality workmanship and personalized service.

Douglas Magnus Studios

It was in 1972 when Douglas Magnus first took a hammer and homemade tools to fashion silver into simple ornaments. Learning the craft and trade of jewelry making and design came easily to him.

In 1978, Magnus shifted away from purely Native American influences to a more contemporary style. His vision was to create fashionable belt buckles for the leather trade. Magnus buckles are hand-crafted in the Santa Fe Studio utilizing proprietary technology and designs developed at Magnus Studios. Be sure to check out Mangus Santa Fe 400 Collection of jewelry.

Vogt Sterling and Leather Company - "Buckles for a Lifetime"

The Vogt sterling and leather company is a 35-year old small family owned business. Each silver piece that is created in their shop is individually crafted in hand engraved, solid sterling silver and considered heirloom quality.

Like what you see? Ask Joanne for your personal style advice.