What Is a Concho?
A concho is a decorative metal piece traditionally used in Western leathercraft to embellish saddles, bridles, belts, bags, and other accessories. The word "concho" comes from the Spanish word concha, meaning "shell," due to its original round, shell-like shape. Conchos are typically made from metals such as silver, brass, copper, or zinc alloy, and often feature engraved patterns, stone inlays, or raised designs like stars, flowers, or feathers. They are attached using screws, rivets, or Chicago screws, making them easy to use in handcrafted or custom gear. Conchos serve both decorative and functional purposes—enhancing the style of Western gear while also reinforcing leather pieces. Rooted in Native American and cowboy traditions, conchos have become a symbol of Western heritage and craftsmanship.
Top 10 Most Popular Types of Conchos
1. Sunflower Concho
Sunflower conchos are decorative ornaments, often made of metal or leather, that are used to embellish various items, particularly in Western and Native American styles. They add a touch of aesthetic appeal and can be found on belts, bags, clothing, tack (horse equipment), jewelry, and other accessories. Typically round in shape, this concho features detailed petal engravings radiating from the center, closely resembling the natural beauty of a sunflower bloom. Crafted from zinc alloy, brass, or stainless steel, Sunflower Conchos are often finished in antique silver, copper, or gold tones, adding a warm and rustic charm to Western leatherwork. These conchos are commonly attached to saddles, headstalls, breast collars, belts, and handbags using screws or rivets. Popular among both traditional and modern Western riders, the sunflower design symbolizes joy, warmth, and growth, making it a favorite choice for those looking to add a touch of nature-inspired elegance to their tack or accessories.
2. Berry Concho
A Berry Concho is a decorative metal embellishment, typically used in leathercraft and western wear, featuring a circular design with a raised "berry" or beaded edge. This timeless design is often paired with smooth or engraved centers, sometimes featuring floral or scrollwork patterns. The "berry" detail refers to the small, rounded bumps or beads that border the edge of the concho, creating a textured, decorative rim. Typically made from zinc alloy, stainless steel, or brass, Berry Conchos are available in finishes like antique silver, copper, or two-tone combinations, offering both subtle elegance and bold contrast. These conchos are commonly used on saddles, bridles, breast collars, belts, and other leather accessories, and are attached using screws or rivets for secure placement. Known for their versatility and traditional Western appeal, Berry Conchos are a popular choice among riders who appreciate a refined yet rugged style in their tack
3. Thunderbird Concho
Thunderbird Concho is also a decorative metal embellishment that is used in leathercrafting in western wear. This design features a raised mythical Thunderbird—a powerful Native American symbol representing strength, protection, and spiritual power. Thunderbird Concho may include a bold wing-spread shape, engraved feathers or lightning motifs, and eye-catching turquoise or colored stone inlays. These conchos are generally made of silver, brass, or antique-finish metals like: Antique Nickel & Antique Copper, and used as equestrian accessories like: Western Headstall and Breast Collar, Saddles, Halters, Wither and Spur Strap, belts, and other accessories. The Thunderbird Concho features a bold wing-spread shape, engraved feathers or lightning motifs, and eye-catching turquoise or colored stone inlays.
4. Star concho
Star Concho is a decorative metal embellishment featuring a round and oval shape with an embossed star design used in leather handcrafting in western wear. This concho is made from zinc alloy, brass, or stainless steel, and may have antique, rustic, or polished finishes. These are typically attached with the items with the help of screws or rivets making them suitable of handcrafting. The use of conchos, including star conchos, has roots in Native American and Western cultures, with a history of use on horse tack and clothing.
5. Congress Concho
A Congress Concho is a round, decorative metal embellishment widely used in Western horse tack, belts, saddles, and leather accessories. Known for its clean circular shape and intricate engraved patterns—often featuring floral scrolls, rosettes, or beaded edges—this concho adds a touch of classic elegance to any leather item. Typically made from zinc alloy, brass, or stainless steel, Congress Conchos come in various finishes like antique silver, copper, or gold. They are attached securely using screws or rivets, making them ideal for handcrafted leatherwork. The name “Congress” is inspired by prestigious horse shows like the All-American Quarter Horse Congress, where this style of concho is often used in award-winning tack sets. Symbolizing tradition and craftsmanship, the Congress Concho remains a timeless choice in Western design.
6. Sunburst Concho
A Sunburst Concho is a decorative metal accent commonly used in Western leathercraft, known for its radiating sun-ray patterns representing energy and vibrancy that mimic the rays of the sun spreading outward from the center. This concho typically features a round or slightly domed shape, with engraved or embossed sunray patterns that add a bold and eye-catching touch to saddles, bridles, belts, and other leather accessories. Made from materials like zinc alloy, brass, or stainless steel, Sunburst Conchos often come in antique, silver, or gold finishes to match various Western styles. They are usually attached with screws or rivets, making them both functional and easy to incorporate into custom leatherwork. The sunburst design symbolizes energy, warmth, and Western spirit, making it a popular choice among riders and craftsmen who want to add a vibrant, classic detail to their gear.
7. Cactus Concho
A Cactus Concho is a decorative metal accent commonly used in Western leathercraft, featuring a cactus-themed design that symbolizes endurance, the rugged desert landscape, and the spirit of the Wild West. Typically crafted from zinc alloy, brass, or stainless steel, these conchos are available in antique silver, copper, or mixed-metal finishes. The design often includes detailed engravings of saguaro or prickly pear cacti, sometimes combined with other desert elements like sunbursts or cow skulls. Cactus Conchos are attached to saddles, bridles, belts, bags, and vests using screws or rivets, adding a rustic and adventurous touch to Western tack. Popular among rodeo riders, ranchers, and Western fashion enthusiasts, the Cactus Concho brings a bold, nature-inspired statement to any leather accessory.
8. Cross-Gun Concho
9. Bull Head Concho
A Bull Head Concho is a striking decorative metal piece used in Western leathercraft, featuring the image of a bull or steer head, often with prominent horns and rugged detailing. This concho symbolizes strength, resilience, and the spirit of ranch life, making it a popular choice among rodeo riders, ranchers, and Western enthusiasts. Typically round or oval in shape, Bull Head Conchos are made from zinc alloy, brass, or stainless steel, and are available in antique silver, copper, or two-tone finishes. They are commonly attached using screws or rivets and are used to embellish saddles, headstalls, breast collars, belts, bags, and hats. With its bold and iconic design, the Bull Head Concho adds a powerful Western statement to any leather accessory.
10. Feather Concho
A Feather Concho is a decorative metal embellishment used in Western leathercraft that features detailed feather engravings, symbolizing freedom, honor, and connection to Native American heritage. Often round or oval in shape, this concho showcases one or more feathers, either engraved around the edge or prominently displayed in the center. Crafted from materials like zinc alloy, brass, or stainless steel, Feather Conchos are available in antique silver, copper, or mixed-metal finishes. They are typically secured to leather items such as saddles, bridles, belts, and bags using screws or rivets. The feather design adds a meaningful and artistic touch to Western gear, making it a popular choice among those who value tradition, spirituality, and the natural beauty of Western culture.
