Dating Old Buttons: A Journey Through Time
Buttons have been a part of human clothing for centuries. From utilitarian to decorative, buttons have come a long way in terms of design, materials, and uses. One of the fascinating aspects of collecting buttons is the history they hold. By examining the color, shape, design, and material of an old button, you can date it and learn about the time period it belongs to. In this article, we will explore the different ways of dating old buttons.
Button Materials
One of the most important factors in dating old buttons is the material they are made of. Different materials were used in different periods, and some materials were more expensive than others. Here are some of the most common materials used in vintage buttons and the time periods they belong to:
1. Metal Buttons
Metal buttons were prevalent in the 18th century, and they were made of brass, pewter, copper, or silver. The designs were usually simple, with a raised rim and a flat center. Some metal buttons had designs stamped or engraved on them.
2. Glass Buttons
Glass buttons came into fashion in the mid-19th century and were popular until the early 20th century. They were made of clear or colored glass and had designs painted or molded onto them. Some glass buttons had metallic backs, while others had a shank.
3. Ceramic Buttons
Ceramic buttons were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were made of porcelain or earthenware and had designs painted or transfer printed onto them. Some ceramic buttons were molded into different shapes and had a glaze to protect them.
4. Vegetable Ivory Buttons
Vegetable ivory buttons were a popular alternative to animal ivory in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were made of the seeds of certain palm trees and had a texture similar to animal ivory. These buttons were often dyed different colors and had designs carved or stamped onto them.
Button Designs
Another way of dating old buttons is by examining their design. Different designs were popular in different periods, and some designs were unique to a particular time or place. Here are some of the common button designs and the time periods they belong to:
1. Military Buttons
Military buttons have been around since ancient times, but they became more elaborate in the 18th century. Military buttons often had designs that represented the branch of service, such as crossed swords for infantry or an anchor for navy.
2. Art Nouveau Buttons
Art Nouveau was a popular art movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and it influenced button design as well. Art Nouveau buttons had organic shapes, flowing lines, and often depicted nature themes such as flowers or insects.
3. Art Deco Buttons
Art Deco was another popular art movement that emerged in the 1920s and lasted until the 1930s. Art Deco buttons had geometric shapes, bold colors, and often depicted industrial themes such as cars or airplanes.
4. Figural Buttons
Figural buttons are buttons that have a design molded into them, often depicting animals or people. Figural buttons have been around since ancient times, but they became more popular in the 19th century.
Button Backs
The back of a button can also provide clues about its age. Different types of backs were used in different time periods, and some backs were more common than others. Here are some of the common button backs and the time periods they belong to:
1. Self-Shank Buttons
Self-shank buttons have a loop on the back made from the same material as the button itself. Self-shank buttons were common in the 18th century.
2. Split-Shank Buttons
Split-shank buttons have a loop on the back made from a different material than the button itself, often metal or thread. Split-shank buttons were prevalent in the mid-19th century.
3. Shank Buttons
Shank buttons have a loop on the back that is separate from the button itself. Shank buttons became popular in the late 19th century.
4. Stud Buttons
Stud buttons have a flat back with no loop or shank. Stud buttons became popular in the early 20th century.
Button Manufacturers
The manufacturer of a button can also provide clues about its age. Different manufacturers were active in different time periods, and some manufacturers used specific logos or trademarks on their buttons. Here are some of the common button manufacturers and the time periods they were active:
1. Waterbury Button Company
The Waterbury Button Company was founded in 1812 and produced buttons for military uniforms during the Civil War. The company is still in operation today.
2. L & F Moreau
L & F Moreau was a French button manufacturer active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The company produced high-quality enamel buttons with intricate designs.
3. La Mode Buttons
La Mode Buttons was an American button manufacturer active from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century. The company produced a wide range of buttons, from utilitarian to decorative.
4. B.D.M.& Co.
B.D.M.& Co. was an English button manufacturer active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The company produced high-quality metal buttons with intricate designs.
Dating Old Buttons
Dating old buttons can be a fascinating journey through time. By examining the material, design, back, and manufacturer of a button, you can learn about the period it belongs to and the fashion trends of that time. Whether you're a collector or just interested in fashion history, old buttons offer a glimpse into our past that is both educational and entertaining.
