Production of Holland’s western jewelry began in 1936 with the introduction of the “spur clip” tie clip. Chase Holland had established a jewelry business in San Angelo, Texas in 1918. After the depression, he wanted a gift to express his appreciation to his friends who had helped him make it through the difficult years. A miniature silver spur was fashioned as a tie clip. This spur was given as a token of appreciation to friends who had “won their spurs” in the western tradition.

Some of the first spur clips produced were given by Mr. Houston Harte, founder of Harte Hanks Communications, Inc. to President Franklin Roosevelt, Vice President John Nance Garner and Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn. The “spur clip” was then patented and the creative craftsmen of Holland’s workshop developed a unique line of western spur jewelry that is still produced today.

The success of the spur jewelry led to the creation of the famous Holland’s buckles and other western accessories. From 1936 to 1940 numerous styles of buckle sets and trophy buckles were designed. Many of the legendary Texas Rangers wore these buckle sets as well as the spur tie clips. This is why today the buckles are often called “Ranger” sets.

Chase Holland employed tool and die makers as well as hand engravers to produce the steel die sets necessary to make the buckles and spur jewelry. All of the Holland’s buckles are die struck in Sterling Silver or solid 14 or 18 karat gold. Die struck metals are more dense and heavier than pieces that are casted. Production costs are higher for die struck buckles, but they are stronger and harder. This also allows the hand engraving to create a very bright cut in the dense metal.

Over the years, Holland’s buckles and spurs have been worn by many well known ranchers, wildcatters, politicians and celebrities. Holland’s buckles have become cherished family keepsakes that are treasured as much as Grandfather’s gold watch.