Own a Rare Piece of French Military History
Can you imagine owning a genuine piece of French history?
This remarkable button once adorned the uniform of a Napoleonic soldier. Just pause for a moment… can you feel the weight of that? I source many of my treasures from a trusted antique dealer in Lyon who is a qualified historian whose passion is as deep as mine. When he placed this button in my hand and shared its story, I was completely captivated.
The Crowned Symbol of Napoleon’s Empire
Each time Napoleon sent his troops into battle, they were issued new uniforms. The colours and cuts would change, but the crowned buttons remained a constant. The design of the crown evolved, yet it always stood as a symbol of power, loyalty, and empire throughout Napoleon’s reign.
There’s something truly magnetic about this button. The energy it holds feels bold, proud, and deeply powerful. While working with it, I found myself wondering, who was the man who once wore it? What fate did he meet? And could it be possible that Napoleon himself once brushed his hand across this very button?
Antique Button Transformed Into a Handcrafted Pendant
In truth, this button deserves a place in a museum, but I feel honoured to have lovingly restored and reimagined it into a bold, one of a kind pendant. Entirely handcrafted in solid Sterling Silver (925) using traditional Goldsmithing techniques, it now lives on as a striking piece of wearable history.
I’ve kept the back of the setting open, preserving the original maker’s mark, which is an important detail that not only helps date the button but adds to its historical value. This particular button dates to 1805, making it over two centuries old.
Statement Necklace With Solid Sterling Silver Chain
To complete this treasure, it’s paired with a beautifully weighty, handcrafted Sterling Silver chain. I adore the mix of oval and round links. It’s eye catching, contemporary, and substantial enough to wear every day. Every link has been silver soldered closed for strength, giving you a more secure, enduring necklace.
The total length is 56cm or 21.5 inches. See the photos to show the size of the pendant.
Your jewellery journey begins with a piece of wearable history, hand crafted by Porsha Bella Jewellery.
*Please note, the buttons used in all of my creations are second hand, antique or vintage, therefore they will show signs of their previous lives. Some scratches, tiny dents, some enamel wear and even tarnishing. I cannot guarantee the quality or longevity of these buttons. In some cases there can be colour variations, and plating lift during the polishing process, this is unavoidable. I’m unable to refund or replace buttons that break or crack. Although I do put every button through rigorous testing to do my best to ensure their longevity. *Disclaimer… I’m not able to guarantee the longevity of any buttons that have crystals or pearls used.
Unlike costume jewellery, my jewellery is professionally hand crafted using traditional Goldsmith techniques and genuine, solid precious metals, so therefore you can wear *some of your Porsha Bella pieces whilst swimming, showering and washing. These activities shouldn’t damage or discolour the precious metals. I never take my jewellery off. However, you may need to polish your jewellery a little more frequently if you want that shiny, brand new look. If you treat your Porsha Bella creation, like the treasure of history it is, you should have an heirloom piece that will stand the test of time. If you have any concerns about how to care for this piece, then please reach out to me and I can help you with tips on getting a long and happy wear life out of it.
*Designer buttons have no affiliation with the brand or fashion house of their origin. I do my best to ensure all designer buttons are genuine and from a reputable source. Porsha Bella designer button creations are not sold on behalf of or in conjunction with the brand. The designer buttons are second hand, vintage or antique, with all rights removed and protected by the second hand market.
* Your Porsha Bella Jewellery purchases are shipped using LaPoste France. Whilst international tracking is used, there is NO insurance for loss or damage during shipping. When you complete your purchase, you are agreeing to your piece being shipped without insurance. If you want to have the shipment insured, please contact me before checking out & I can provide you with a quote for shipping and insurance.