Hello Jack
Yes, as a general rule silver (for officers) and white metal (for other ranks) is a good indication of volunteers, at least as far as buttons are concerned in the Victorian period and on. Before 1830 some regular regiments used silver buttons and lace.
As with all such 'general rules' there are always exceptions, of course. Rifle Volunteer buttons may be silver, white metal, black horn or blackened brass, a white metal button may be a piper's button and so on.
When I see a silver/white metal button I think 'volunteer' and start work from there.
Regards
Roger
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