Gold-Tone PVD Coated Stainless Steel Cable Chain
Necklace / Chain (Fine Cable Link) · Gold-tone finish (likely PVD or Ion-Plating over 316L Stainless Steel). It mimics the color of 18K Yellow Gold.
Purity: Non-precious / 0% Gold Content. This is base metal with a decorative coating. There is no karat rating or precious metal fineness.
Type
Necklace / Chain (Fine Cable Link)
Purity
Non-precious / 0% Gold Content. This is base metal with a decorative coating. There is no karat rating or precious metal fineness.
Gold Type
Gold-tone finish (likely PVD or Ion-Plating over 316L Stainless Steel). It mimics the color of 18K Yellow Gold.
Weight
3 to 5 grams. The item is lightweight and made of steel, which has a much lower density than solid gold.
Description
A dainty gold-tone fashion chain designed for daily wear. While it captures the aesthetic of a classic gold necklace, it is constructed from durable stainless steel, making it resistant to tarnishing and tarnish-related greening of the skin.
Key Features
S.STEEL identifier tag, PVD gold-tone plating, high durability, hypoallergenic base metal, lobster claw clasp.
Color & Finish
Vibrant yellow gold-tone with a high-polish finish. The color is slightly more brassy/saturated than natural precious metal.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'S.STEEL' (Stainless Steel) on an oval identification tag located near the clasp extender.
Dimensions Estimate
Chain width: ~1.0mm to 1.5mm. Estimated length: 16 to 18 inches with a 2-inch extender.
Gemstones & Inlays
None present.
Clasp & Closure
Lobster claw clasp with an adjustable cable-link extender chain ending in a stamped oval metal tag.
Chain & Links
Standard machine-made cable links. These consist of uniform, interconnected oval loops with basic mechanical assembly.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped links and factory-assembled components. Low-tier craftsmanship intended for mass-market fashion consumption.
Authentication Indicators
THE MAJOR RED FLAG: The 'S.STEEL' stamp explicitly identifies the item as non-gold. The weight to size ratio is also too light for solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced in East Asia (China or Thailand). Unbranded fashion jewelry available in high-volume retail markets.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2010s to present). This style of mass-produced fashion jewelry is currently modern.
Age Estimate
Modern production, likely within the last 5 years based on the PVD coating technology and clasp style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'affordable luxury' movement in fashion, allowing for a gold aesthetic without the investment cost of precious metals.
Condition Notes
Good condition. There is slight tangling in the main body of the chain and minor surface scratches on the identification tag.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: $0.00. Retail/Resale Value: $5.00 - $15.00 USD. The value is strictly in the functional utility of the piece as fashion jewelry.
Care & Maintenance
Wipe with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or jewelry cleaners. While stainless steel is water-resistant, chlorine should be avoided to preserve the gold-tone coating.
Similar Items
14K Gold-Filled cable chain (contains actual gold layer), 14K Vermeil (gold over silver), or 10K Solid Gold dainty cable chain.
Interesting Facts
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating is often used on luxury watches and surgical tools because it is significantly more durable than traditional electroplating.