High-Purity Yellow Gold Fold-Over Clasp Component with 'K' Mark
Jewelry Finding / Clasp Component (Box or Fold-over transition piece) · Yellow Gold (High-karat alloy with low copper/silver content)
Purity: Indicated likely 22K (91.6%) or 24K (99.9%) based on deep saturated color; 'K' may stand for Karat or a specific maker.
Type
Jewelry Finding / Clasp Component (Box or Fold-over transition piece)
Purity
Indicated likely 22K (91.6%) or 24K (99.9%) based on deep saturated color; 'K' may stand for Karat or a specific maker.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High-karat alloy with low copper/silver content)
Weight
0.8 - 1.5 grams (small, high-density component)
Description
A functional gold jewelry finding designed for high-security closure. The piece features a distinct 'K' mark and a curved profile designed to snap over a bar or into a box slot. Its rich color suggests high purity, typical of investment-grade jewelry.
Key Features
High-saturation yellow hue; specific 'crown' shaped top with circular indentations for structural alignment.
Color & Finish
Deep buttery yellow with a matte to satin finish; surface shows micro-abrasions from handling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Large hand-stamped or engraved 'K' on the flat face; two circular dot indentations on the upper 'ears'.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: 12-15mm; Width: 6-8mm (Petite component)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; solid gold construction.
Clasp & Closure
Fold-over tension mechanism; likely the tongue or locking plate for a luxury watch band or heavy bracelet.
Chain & Links
N/A; this is a single structural finding with a bent-tension profile.
Craftsmanship Details
Stamped from sheet gold and hand-finished; the 'K' appears hand-struck rather than laser-engraved.
Authentication Indicators
The color consistency and 'soft' appearance of the metal are indicative of high gold content; the 'K' stamp is atypical for Western 14k/18k standards, suggesting regional high-purity origins.
Origin & Maker
Likely Southeast Asian (Thai or Indian) or Middle Eastern, where high-karat gold and 'K' markings for bullion-jewelry are common.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th century to present); utilizes industrial stamping with manual marking.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - 2020 based on the condition and stamping style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Baht' or 'Tola' gold tradition where jewelry serves as portable wealth and liquid currency.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface scratches consistent with use; tension curve remains intact without thinning.
Value Estimate
Primary value is melt value (approx. $60-$110 USD depending on exact weight and purity) plus a 10% premium for the functional finding.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid heavy chemicals; clean only with warm soapy water. Because high-karat gold is soft, avoid bending the tension flap frequently.
Similar Items
Watch band deployant clasps, heavy box-clasp tongues, or safety catches for 'Cuban' style chains.
Interesting Facts
In many Eastern cultures, jewelry is sold by weight with a very low premium over spot, leading to heavy, high-purity components like this one.