14K Yellow Gold Simple Ball Stud Earring (Single)
Earring (Stud) · Yellow Gold (Alloyed with silver and copper to provide a classic warm yellow tone).
Purity: 14K (58.5% Pure Gold); standard jewelry grade alloyed for durability. Common for daily wear jewelry.
Type
Earring (Stud)
Purity
14K (58.5% Pure Gold); standard jewelry grade alloyed for durability. Common for daily wear jewelry.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Alloyed with silver and copper to provide a classic warm yellow tone).
Weight
0.1 to 0.3 grams; extremely lightweight and likely hollow or semi-hollow construction.
Description
A classic 14K yellow gold ball stud earring featuring a high-polish finish. This minimalist design is a jewelry box essential, offering a subtle, elegant glint suitable for primary or secondary lobe piercings. Its lightweight nature makes it ideal for comfortable all-day wear.
Key Features
Spherical gold head, soldered straight post, high-shine finish, and minimalist aesthetic.
Color & Finish
Classic warm yellow with a high-polished mirror finish. Shows minimal patina, indicating relatively modern production.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped '14K' or '585' on the post or the butterfly clutch back; markings are not clearly visible in the provided image due to scale.
Dimensions Estimate
Ball diameter approximately 3mm to 4mm; standard post length of 10mm; petite size.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; simple gold sphere design.
Clasp & Closure
Post and friction back (butterfly clutch). The post requires a separate backing to secure it to the earlobe.
Chain & Links
N/A; solid/hollow spherical construction with a straight jewelry post soldered to the back.
Craftsmanship Details
Likely machine-stamped or electroformed. The soldering point between the ball and the post is the primary point of failure; should be smooth and integrated.
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency (no base metal showing through), lack of magnetic attraction (if solid gold), and presence of standard purity stamps (usually on the post).
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced (Italy, USA, or Turkey); these are standard commercial jewelry items sold by most retailers.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present); the ball stud is a timeless staple that has remained unchanged for decades as a jewelry essential.
Age Estimate
Modern; likely manufactured within the last 10-20 years based on the bright polish and standard post gauge.
Cultural Significance
Commonly used as 'starter' earrings in many cultures for children or as a professional, understated choice for everyday corporate attire.
Condition Notes
Good condition; the surface remains reflective. The post appears straight. Note that only a single earring is visible; value is significantly higher for a matching pair.
Value Estimate
Melt value is minimal (approx. $5-$15 USD). Resale value for a single stud is low; a pair typically retails for $40-$80 USD depending on weight.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Safely cleanable in an ultrasonic cleaner. Store separately to avoid scratching the spherical surface.
Similar Items
Hollow gold ball studs (lighter/cheaper), solid gold ball studs (heavier/premium), and gold-plated brass alternatives (susceptible to tarnish/wear).
Interesting Facts
The 'ball stud' is technically known as a bead earring and was popularized in the mid-20th century as the ultimate versatile 'starter' earring for newly pierced ears.