A belt buckle is a buckle, a clasp for fastening two ends, as of straps or a belt, in which a device attached to one of the ends is fitted or coupled to the other. Clasp type belt buckets have been in common use in Europe for at least 1,500 years but the time and place of origin is unknown. In the United States, removable, ornamental belt "buckles" that generally attach to the original buckle are common.
Belt buckles as fashion has risen to prominence, especially in the United States, over the past five years through the two innovations in the belt buckle industry. The classic Western Belt buckle has secured a loyal following of collectors that have kept interest in the trade alive. Additionally, the Belt Buckle as an extension for gadgets and other electronic devices has renewed interest in this piece of clothing.