Glass buttons can lend coats a distinctive sparkle and elegance. High-quality examples come in a range of styles, colors, and designs, from ornate vintage pieces to sleek modern crystal buttons. Below, we explore both vintage and modern glass button options suitable for coats, along with reputable brands and sources, plus details on sizes and pricing where available.
Vintage Glass Coat Buttons
Vintage glass buttons, renowned for their intricate, old-world craftsmanship, were primarily produced in Europe, particularly in Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic). Between the World Wars (1918–1940s), these buttons showcased a variety of styles, including detailed pictorial motifs, dazzling cut-crystal faceted designs, and elegant Art Deco patterns.
Many vintage glass buttons were meticulously hand-pressed or hand-decorated, resulting in distinctive details like painted embellishments and shimmering metallic accents. Examples include:
Black “Jet” Glass Buttons
Black glass, often referred to as "jet" in the Victorian era, was a staple for mourning attire and beyond. Antique black glass coat buttons frequently featured faceted surfaces or striking gold and silver inlays for contrast.
- A notable mid-20th-century set by BGE included seven black glass buttons with gold cross-hatched tops, each measuring approximately 25 mm (1").
- These buttons embodied timeless elegance with sturdy shank-backs, making them ideal for coats.
Clear or Cut Crystal Buttons
Clear glass buttons with cut facets were highly valued for their gemstone-like brilliance. Many vintage coat buttons were crafted from thick clear glass with reinforced metal-lined holes for added durability.
- A 1950s set of oval clear glass coat buttons (~46 × 18 mm each) featured chrome-lined sew-through holes, ensuring longevity.
- Despite their age, these buttons remained in excellent condition, demonstrating the resilience of quality glass.
Czech Handcrafted Designs
The Czech regions have long been celebrated for their exquisite glass buttons, producing some of the most vibrant and intricate designs.
- Vintage Czech glass coat buttons often feature bold colors, iridescent finishes, and detailed floral or pictorial motifs, either molded or painted into the glass.
- These buttons typically have either an integral glass shank or a metal loop shank. Sizes vary, but those designed for coats generally measure between 18–30 mm.
- Collectors highly value true vintage Czech pieces—often labeled as “Czech glass”—for their intricate craftsmanship and rich history.
For more on vintage glass buttons, visit zazaofcanada.com.
Because authentic vintage glass buttons are often decades old or even antique, they are usually found through specialty sellers or collectors. They may be sold in small sets or as singles. Prices vary with rarity and condition: common vintage coat buttons can cost just a few dollars each, while rare ornate ones (e.g. hand-painted or unusual colors) might run higher. For example, the 1950s clear set mentioned above was ~$33, whereas a set of fancy Art Deco-era glass buttons could be more. When buying vintage, check dimensions (to ensure they suit your coat’s buttonholes) and the condition (look for chips or cracks). Many vintage glass buttons for coats fall in the ¾″ to 1¼″ diameter range (≈20–30 mm), a suitable size for heavier garments.
Modern Glass Coat Buttons
Modern glass buttons span a range of styles, from dazzling crystal embellishments to artisanal handcrafted pieces. Contemporary designs benefit from advanced materials and precise cuts, often incorporating metal or durable shanks for added practicality. Here are some standout modern styles:
Crystal Rhinestone Buttons
Perfect for adding a touch of glamour to suits and coats, crystal rhinestone buttons are prized for their light-catching brilliance.
- Swarovski Precision-Cut Buttons: Brands like Swarovski create finely cut crystal buttons that refract light beautifully. Their 18 mm Rivoli-cut clear crystal button is a timeless choice for blazers or coats.
- Richly Colored Variants: Swarovski also offers stunning options in deep hues, such as a 20 mm ruby red crystal button, blending vintage charm with modern quality.
- Pricing & Quality: These buttons typically feature metal or sturdy plastic shanks. Smaller sizes cost a few dollars each, while limited-edition or larger coat buttons (~1+ inch) can range from $10–$20 apiece due to their exquisite faceting.
Murano-Style Art Glass Buttons
For a uniquely artistic touch, Italian glass buttons—often crafted in the Murano tradition—feature stunning details like embedded gold or silver leaf and intricate swirled or mosaic-like patterns.
- Design & Shapes: These buttons come in various shapes, including round, square, and floral designs, and may be made as one-hole pendants or shank-style buttons.
- Exclusive Craftsmanship: A UK retailer offers handcrafted Italian glass buttons with gold or silver leaf accents, each displaying gorgeous, one-of-a-kind designs.
- Sizing & Pricing: Small artisan glass buttons (10–15 mm) are typically priced at £1–£3 each, while larger, more intricate designs (25–30 mm) cost slightly more, reflecting their craftsmanship and materials.
Contemporary Bulk Glass Buttons
For those needing a matching set of high-quality buttons for coats, modern manufacturers offer bulk sets of faceted or beveled glass buttons with molded shank backs.
- Color & Variety: One supplier offers 25 mm (1") round beveled glass coat buttons in assorted colors such as ruby red, sapphire blue, and clear with foil backing.
- Affordability & Functionality: These buttons come in packs of 20 for around $16–$18 USD (under $1 per button), making them an economical choice for coats requiring uniform buttoning.
- Elegant Finish: Despite their affordability, they feature clean-cut facets that allow light to pass through, creating a reflective, high-end look. While the glass remains crystal-clear, the shanks are typically made from plastic or resin for enhanced durability.
These modern glass buttons offer a balance of beauty, craftsmanship, and practicality, making them ideal for everything from high-fashion coats to stylish uniforms.
Glass buttons are the perfect way to add timeless distinctive charm to any coat. Whether you’re drawn to the rich history of vintage Czech glass or the dazzling brilliance of modern Swarovski crystal, these buttons offer a sophisticated upgrade to outerwear.
Explore Zaza of Canada’s curated collection of vintage and contemporary glass buttons to find the perfect accents for your next coat project. With a wide variety of styles, colors, and finishes, you’re sure to discover buttons that make a statement.
Shop now and transform your coats with the beauty of glass!