TJA MEMBER PROFILE
The Famous Journey of the Spur Clips: Two of the very first spur clips were presented to President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Vice President John Nance Garner . Over time, the Spur Clip found its way into the hands of countless celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries. One of the company’s prized possessions is a signed thank you letter from none other than Henry Ford II after receiving his Holland’s Spur Clip as a gift from the company. It became a meaningful gift of accomplishment and gratitude, treasured by those who received it. The clip was patented, marking Holland’s official entry into jewelry manufacturing— a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. With the success of the Spur Clip, Holland’s began developing a unique line of Western-inspired jewelry. Skilled craftsmen in the Holland workshop expanded production to include hand-crafted buckles, spur jewelry, and specialty pieces, many of which remain in production today. Each item reflected a commitment to quality, authenticity, and tradition.
The late 1930s saw the birth of another iconic product line: Holland’s famous buckles. From 1936 to 1940, numerous styles of buckle sets and trophy buckles were designed. These pieces quickly gained popularity, especially among the legendary Texas Rangers. Many Rangers proudly wore Holland’s buckles and spur tie clips, cementing their place in Texas history. To this day, these designs are often referred to as “Ranger sets” in honor of their distinguished wearers. What truly set Holland’s Fine Jewelers apart, then and now, was its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. Chase Holland employed skilled tool and die makers, along with master hand engravers, to produce the steel dies necessary to create each piece. Unlike cast jewelry, Holland’s buckles are die struck in sterling silver or solid 14 or 18 karat gold. Die striking produces denser, heavier, and more durable pieces. While the process is more labor- intensive and costly, the result is superior strength and longevity.
This technique also allows for exceptionally bright, crisp hand engraving. Each piece is carefully finished by skilled artisans, ensuring no two items are exactly alike. The artistry behind every buckle, spur clip, and custom piece reflects the company’s dedication to quality that stands the test of time.
| 7 VOLUME XXVI, NO. 1 SPRING/SUMMER 2026 SPRING/SUMMER 2026
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