Find HS Code and trade information for sterling silver buckle

Sterling Silver Buckle

A sterling silver buckle is a fastening component, typically used on belts, straps, or other similar applications, crafted from sterling silver, an alloy of silver containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper.

Material:

• Sterling Silver (92.5% Silver): The primary component. The addition of copper enhances durability compared to pure silver. The hallmark "925" or similar stamp indicates sterling silver content.
• Copper (7.5%): Added for strength and to prevent excessive softness.
• Other Alloys (trace amounts): Zinc or other metals may be present in small quantities to further refine properties.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of a sterling silver buckle is to securely fasten two ends of a strap or belt together. Beyond functionality, it often serves as a decorative element, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the attached item. Due to the value of silver, buckles are frequently used to signify quality or status.

Function:

Buckles operate using a prong (or multiple prongs) that inserts into holes punched along the strap. The lever on the back of the buckle tightens the strap against the prongs, creating a secure hold. Different buckle designs utilize variations on this basic principle.

Usage Scenarios:

• Belts: The most common application, found in both casual and formal wear.
• Straps: Used on bags, luggage, guitar straps, and other items requiring adjustable or secure fastening.
• Clothing: Decorative buckles on jackets, coats, or other garments.
• Accessories: Used in jewelry or other fashion items.
• Equestrian Equipment: Historically and currently used on horse tack and riding gear.

Common Types:

• Prong Buckles (Single/Double Prong): The most prevalent type, utilizing one or two prongs to secure the strap.
• Roller Buckles: Feature a roller mechanism to tighten and loosen the strap, often used on belts requiring frequent adjustments.
• Cap Buckles: Enclose the strap end within a decorative cap, providing a cleaner appearance.
• O-Ring Buckles: Utilize an O-ring to secure the strap, common on bags and straps.
• Slide Buckles: Allow for continuous adjustment without pre-punched holes.
• Decorative/Embossed Buckles: Feature intricate designs, engravings, or embellishments.
• Western Buckles: Larger, often ornate buckles associated with Western wear.

Sterling silver buckles fall under the category of clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle-clasps, hooks, eyes, eyelets and the like, of base metal, used for clothing or clothing accessories, footwear, jewelry, wrist watches, books, awnings, leather goods, travel goods or saddlery or for other made up articles.

Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 8308906000: Clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle-clasps, hooks, eyes, eyelets and the like, of a kind used for clothing or clothing accessories, footwear, jewelry, wrist watches, books, awnings, leather goods, travel goods or saddlery or for other made up articles; tubular or bifurated rivets, of base metal; beads and spangles, of base metal: Other, including parts: Buckles and buckle clasps, and parts thereof. This code specifically covers buckles and buckle clasps used in the applications mentioned. The first two digits, '83', indicate Chapter 83, which relates to miscellaneous manufactured articles. '90' denotes Heading 90, covering articles of base metal not elsewhere specified. '60' represents the subheading for buckles and buckle clasps.
• 8308903000: Clasps, frames with clasps, buckles, buckle-clasps, hooks, eyes, eyelets and the like, of base metal, of a kind used for clothing or clothing accessories, footwear, jewelry, wrist watches, books, awnings, leather goods, travel goods or saddlery or for other made up articles; tubular or bifurated rivets, of base metal; beads and spangles, of base metal: Other, including parts: Beads and spangles of base metal. While this code covers 'other' articles within the same category, it specifically lists beads and spangles.

Regarding HS code 8308906000, the tax rate is a base tariff of 3.9%, a surcharge of 25.0%, and a surcharge of 30.0% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 58.9%.