Imitation cut gems were often used on men's clothing during the 18th century. Being securely mounted onto the highest quality pewter, they come in four colors red (upper left), purple (upper right), green (lower left) and blue (lower right). These buttons are copied from originals salvaged from an early 18th century Spanish ship. On page 56 of Cloth and Costume there is pictured one button set with a blue stone and another set with a clear stone. In >The Proceedings of the Old Bailey in London, four criminals "were indicted for that they, together . . . king's highway, on Ann White, widow, did make an assault, putting her in corporal fear, and danger of her life . . . 4 pair of silver buttons set with stones, and other things, the goods of the said Ann did steal, take and carry away."
These imitation gems are mounted securely onto high quality carved pewter buttons. They come in four colors red (upper left), purple (upper right), green (lower left) and blue (lower right). The buttons are copied from originals salvaged from an early 18th century Spanish ship.
Made in the USA.
