What Are Belt Buckles?
We all know what they look like, but for those who don’t, here’s a simple definition of belt buckles:
Simply put, belt buckles are clasps that fasten belts or straps together. Belt buckles are usually attached to one end of a belt, and with them, the user can fit or adjust the belt according to his/her preferences.
The term “buckle” comes from the Old French and Latin word “buccula,” meaning “cheek-strap” for helmets. These buckles are widely used on different kinds of belts, including baldrics, baltea, cingula, and waist belts.
History of Belt Buckles
Belt buckles have been around for a long time. The earliest record of buckles being used goes way back to tribe hunters and their buckles that were made of antlers or bones.
The Roman soldiers also used to put their body armors together with straps and buckles, which were made of bronze or iron and designed according to their preferences. Some of these decorations embody various animals.
Back then, belt buckles were only exclusive to rich people. When the 15th century hit, though, more affordable buckles were made using improved manufacturing techniques, so they were eventually released to the general public.
Americans also had their share of belt buckle history, especially in the Western era. By this time, buckles were created using silver or turquoise, and as time passed, belt buckles became even more popular--- thanks to motion pictures that were Western-themed.
Aside from Western ones, belt buckles which featured flags became popular with the public. These flags often had the words “American by birth, southern by the grace of God,” “United we stand,” or “God bless America.”
Types of Belt Buckles
We commonly see only one type of belt buckles, but there are actually different types:
Box-frame Buckles
Box-frame belt buckles are solid and rectangular in shape (box-like). They have a metal tongue that connects them to the belt.
Box-out Buckles
These are very fashionable belt buckles, but not usually worn for function.
Clip Buckles
A clip buckle is the large and mostly decorated type. It has a big plate with a peg that pops into the belt when worn.
Frame-style Buckles
Frame-style buckles are the ones with the oldest design known to mankind. They have a frame and prong combination, in which the latter connects to the end of the frame.
Plate-style Buckles
Plate-style buckles have three hooks that hold the buckle to the belt.
Snap Buckles
Snap buckles have the mechanism that makes it pop securely into a special belt.
Traditional Buckles
Traditional buckles have the classic appearance, and are usually made of nickel, brass, or silver. They also come in single-piece or three-piece clamp.
