A native of New York City, Christopher Ross has been sculpting belt buckles since the 1970s, but his collectible pieces are quickly finding popularity with a new generation thanks to the beady eye of stylist supreme Patricia Field, and Sarah Jessica Parker, who sported them in the recent Sex and the City movie.

Not intended for wallflowers, these belt buckles are more like jewellery than your average cincher; hand cast, hand polished and plated in museum quality 24k gold. Each one is unique and comes with a black calfskin belt. Lions, eagles, and snakes abound, but there are also kittens and bows to balance the fierceness of the range.

We love these and thought we should spread the love too - as both long-term collectors and new converts will be pleased to hear that the firm has just launched a website, where you can view, and shop the collection from the comfort of your armchair.

Our verdict? Leave your statement earrings at home.