“Naomi” French Antique Black Glass Button Earrings

Antique French Black Glass Button Earrings

The Allure of Black Glass

The story of antique black glass buttons begins in the Czech Republic, where artisans first mastered the creation of lustrous jet black glass buttons in the late 18th century. These buttons quickly became highly sought after across Europe for their brilliance, depth, and elegance. Their popularity spread, and other countries,  including France, which began producing their own versions, each infused with its own artistic flair. In the early 1800s, French black glass buttons like these were more than fastenings,  they were emblems of refinement. Owning black glass jewellery or accessories was considered a mark of wealth and impeccable taste.

Colour That Elevates Status

The antique French buttons I’ve chosen for these earrings are rare and extraordinary. Not only do they feature the glossy, jet like centre of prized black glass, but they are also surrounded by a radiant ring of coloured crystals. This rainbow of gems is comprised of ruby red, rich sapphire blue, citrine yellow, rose pink, warm smokey quartz, amethyst purple, and diamond clear stones that have  transformed the humble button into a true statement of affluence. In the early 1800s, such black glass button jewellery would have dazzled in candlelit salons, admired as a symbol of luxury and sophistication.

A Jewel Reborn

Their tiny scale makes these buttons perfect for jewellery. I’ve hand crafted them into antique French button earrings with a simple yet elegant bezel of solid sterling silver, plated in a rich layer of 24ct gold vermeil. This golden finish enhances the original gilded details and beautifully complements the sparkling crystals. Each earring also keeps the original button hook visible through its little cut out window,  allowing you to see the glossy black glass in its truest form. It’s a detail that preserves the authenticity of the piece, while making it wearable for today.

Romance That Lives On

To wear these antique French black glass button earrings is to hold a piece of history. Nearly 200 years old, they have survived from another world and yet remain strikingly relevant. The artistry, romance, and symbolism of these buttons live on, now transformed into earrings that feel both timeless and modern. They are not simply gold vermeil earrings….they are heirlooms reborn, a true earring collectors’ must have and stories you can wear and treasure for a lifetime.

Your jewellery journey begins with Porsha Bella’s wearable fashion history creations.

What is 24ct Yellow Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil is a layer of real gold over solid sterling silver. To be called vermeil, the gold must be at least 10ct and plated at a certain thickness. At Porsha Bella Jewellery, I use 24ct yellow gold, the purest, richest toned gold, for a luxurious finish that’s both elegant and enduring.

Caring for Your Gold Vermeil Jewellery

Gold vermeil is a thick layer of 24ct gold over sterling silver.   Luxurious, but delicate. To keep it looking beautiful:

• Avoid water, sweat, perfumes, and lotions.

• Remove before showering, swimming, or exercising.

• Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth,  no harsh cleaners.

• Store pieces separately in a dry, cool place.

Over time, gentle fading is natural. It adds character, but re-plating is always an option if you’d like a refresh.

Now for the legal stuff:-

Important Information

Please note, all buttons used in my creations are antique, vintage, or second hand, and will naturally show signs of their previous lives.  Such as gentle surface marks, tiny dents, enamel wear, or soft tarnishing.
Each button is carefully tested and securely set, but as these treasures can be well over a century old, they remain delicate and should be treated with the same care as any fine antique.

While the jewellery itself is professionally handcrafted from solid precious metals using traditional goldsmith techniques, designed to last a lifetime, the historic buttons, pearls, and crystals within these designs are inherently more fragile. Their age and patina are what make them so special.
To preserve your piece, please avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, perfume, or impact. Treat it gently, and it will bring you many years of beauty and admiration.

As each piece is entirely handmade and one of a kind, I’m unable to offer refunds, exchanges, or replacements for changes of mind, or for age related wear such as button cracking, crystal or pearl loss, or plating lift that may occur over time.

If you ever have concerns about caring for your jewellery, please don’t hesitate to contact me for personalised advice.

Designer buttons have no affiliation with the original fashion houses. I take great care to ensure all branded buttons are genuine and sourced from reputable second hand suppliers & fashion historians.  Porsha Bella designer button jewellery is not sold on behalf of, or in connection with, any brand.

Your purchases are shipped via La Poste France using international tracking.
Please note, shipments are not insured against loss or damage unless requested. By completing your purchase, you agree to uninsurable shipping.
If you would prefer insured shipping, please contact me before checkout for a personalised quote.