Antique Paste Stone Shirtstuds in Silver

Pair of six paste stone cluster shirtstuds in silver. Paste was developed in the late 17th century as an imitation stone that could capture the sparkle of diamonds and other gemstones. Made of crystal or leaded glass, the imitation pieces were often created as a replica of the family jewels that would be suitable for travel. Today, their value lies in the history and their rareness, as fewer and fewer pieces have managed to stay intact.