John Keats, the poet who knew beauty like no one else, once said, A thing of beauty is a joy forever: its loveliness increases; it will never pass into nothingness. There are some things that stand the test of time; their beauty and charm have an enduring value. Vintage buttons are among those things whose value increases with each passing year.

According to experts, buttons made before the year 1918 can be called vintage while those made later, belong to the modern times. The allure of vintage buttons captures the imagination of buttons-collectors years after they have been made, used and saved for posterity. Made usually of glass, gold, silver, enamel, bakelite or celluloid, these buttons have a nostalgic appeal. Vintage buttons are a coveted acquisition of button-aficionados, jewelers, fashion-designers and antique-dealers. Czech and oriental buttons are among the most sought-after vintage buttons.

The last decade has seen a never-before surge in the number of button collectors. Enthusiasts now buy and sell buttons over the internet in addition to estate sales and thrift stores. Button prices according to the The Big Book of Buttons have also reached an all-time high.

Vintage buttons go very well with vintage fabrics, giving your apparel a classic look. Similarly, they lend a traditional feel to jewelry. Needless to say, they make a fine addition to a button collection. These tiny works of art, hand-crafted to perfection are among those things that add value to life. Vintage buttons are tokens of everlasting beauty, to be cherished and preserved.