Making Gorgeous Pendants from Antique Buttons

by Virginia Vivier.
(Sunny Tucson, Arizona USA )

I stumbled upon a website that sold very unique antique buttons. I realized that they would make great molds for PMC (Precious Metal Clay) pendants. So, I purchased a few antique buttons with interesting designs for just a few dollars.

Silver pendant made from Eagle button with added silver decoration

First, I made a mold of the antique button using a silicon mold material. I let it set until it was hard, then pressed some Fine Silver Precious Metal Clay and/or Bronze Clay, into the mold. I cleaned up the edges, and fired it in my jewelry kiln. I drilled a hole, added a bail and, Voila! Gorgeous new pendant and/or earring designs!

Fine Silver Pendant made from Antique Button mold

Silver pendant made from Navy Military button mold

One thing to remember is that the metal clay material will shrink anywhere from 5 – 30%, depending on what you use, so look for buttons that are larger than the finished pendant/earring size you desire.

Antique Shank Brass Button

Virginia Vivier
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