Western Belt Buckle Material Types: Zinc, Silver, Pewter

April 11, 2023

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at stainless steel and brass belt buckles - two of the most common materials out there for rodeo and other belt buckles today. These are just two of many possible materials often used for these products, and making the right selection here is important depending on your needs.

At A Cut Above Buckles, we're here to offer a wide range of custom rodeo belt buckles, fashion buckles and various custom accessories for clients in both Utah and Texas alike. Today's part two of our series will dig into some other common material types used for Western belt buckles today, plus their benefits and why you might consider them.

Zinc Alloy

This mix of zinc, copper, aluminum and magnesium is known for its great strength and hardiness, and is often used in the creation of belt buckles. It's also resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a great option if you're looking for something that will last through heavy use.

The fact that it can be made with complex designs means you still have the ability to create intricate and ornate buckles for those special occasions. It's also an affordable option, making it a great choice if you're looking for something that won't cost too much to produce.

Silver

Whether we're talking about plain silver or sterling silver, this is a great metal for belt buckles due to its durability and attractive finish. It's also hypoallergenic, which makes it an ideal choice for anyone who is sensitive to certain metals. Silver buckle designs can often be quite intricate, offering up a beautiful aesthetic with every wear.

The cost of silver varies quite a bit depending on the quality and design, but as a general rule it will be much more expensive than zinc alloy or brass. However, if you're looking for something that will last for years with minimal maintenance, then silver could be the right choice.

Pewter

For those unfamiliar with is, pewter is a tarnish-resistant silver-toned metal that's created by mixing tin with either copper or antimony. This mixture adds to the durability of the buckle, making it a great option for those who want something that's resistant to wear and tear. It also has good malleability, so complex designs can still be created with relative ease.

Pewter is an affordable metal, but it does have some drawbacks: it isn't as strong as zinc alloy or silver, and it can be prone to scratching or denting if not cared for properly. Nevertheless, if you're looking for something that won't break the bank but still offers good durability, then pewter could be a great choice.

For more on the materials used for belt buckles today, or to learn about any of our quality buckles or accessories, speak to our team at A Cut Above Buckles today.

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