Are you or someone you knows interested in collecting belt buckles? Inola Castings works with customers to create unique custom belt buckles, but also to raise interest in belt buckle collecting.
Before beginning your belt buckle collection, the following contains some valuable advice about custom buckles.
What type of belt buckles interest you? Is there a certain genre that you are drawn to – for example military, western-style, fashionista designs, costume jewelry, school logos, family crests, awareness, patriotic buckles, music, sports or motorcycle clubs? Is there a certain era that interests you – Civil War, WWI, Prohibition, 1960s styles, etc?
Libraries and online resources contain a plethora of information about antiques and highly collectible belt buckles, including rare buckles, specific values and collector information. Sometimes people do not necessary collect specific belt buckles, but may collect Civil War era antiques, which leads them to search for belt buckle collections. Other people find German-style belt buckles to be of interest or even those of foreign design.
Antiques stores and online auction outlets offer a number of belt buckles. If you visit an antique store in person, pay careful attention to the feel, weight, design and finish on the buckles. Consider carrying an identification guide or snapping a picture with your SmartPhone to authentic the item. There are a number of handy guides available online, all of which can help you identify if the belt buckle is in the proper price range based on quality, age and the shape of the buckle.
Never hesitate to consult an expert. If you want to verify the validity of an item, an expert or authentication company can help. If a belt buckle contains gems and valued metals, consider taking it to a jewelry store for appraisal. The American Society of Appraisals offers excellent recommendations for each area and they often specialize in certifying and appraising large items as a single collection.
If you simply desire to expand your current and modern belt buckle collection, perhaps with a personalized flare, consider using Inola Castings to create custom design round, rectangular, custom-shape or oval belt buckles. They range in size between two inches and four inches and Inola Castings offers custom colors in pewter or zinc-based materials. Consider creating unique family crest belt buckles for family members, allowing you to help each member start their very own unique belt buckle collection!
Collections are also a great way to gain children’s interests while keeping them informed about historical significance and value. Open your children’s world or expand your own belt buckle collection today!