24K Korean Pure Gold Buddha Religious Seal Bar
Gold Bar / Religious Medal · Yellow Gold (High purity, nearly pure gold without significant hardening alloys).
Purity: 24 Karat (99.9% fine gold); commonly referred to as '999' or 'Chil-Geum' in South Korea.
Type
Gold Bar / Religious Medal
Purity
24 Karat (99.9% fine gold); commonly referred to as '999' or 'Chil-Geum' in South Korea.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High purity, nearly pure gold without significant hardening alloys).
Weight
Estimated 3.75 grams (1 Don) to 18.75 grams (5 Don). Weight is likely standardized to the 'Don' unit common in Korean gold retail.
Description
A refined 24K pure gold bar featuring the Seokgamoni-bul (Sakyamuni Buddha) seated on a lotus throne. The bar utilizes high-contrast matte and glossy gold textures to create a detailed religious icon. The Hangul characters at the bottom identify it as a commemorative or devotional piece from the Jogye Order, South Korea's largest Buddhist sect.
Key Features
High-purity 24K content, religious iconography, and specific Korean cultural hallmarks. The thin, 'card-style' format is designed for physical devotion or as a store of value.
Color & Finish
Deep saturation yellow; frosted/matte background with micro-etched polished detailing for the Buddha motif.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The Hangul text at the bottom indicates a religious or temple affiliation (likely 'Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism'); purity stamps would typically be on the reverse, often a '999' or a 'Geum' (gold) mark inside a stylized circle.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 25mm x 15mm (Small pendant/wallet size).
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief-pressed gold design only.
Clasp & Closure
None; typical for a flat bullion-style bar, though it may be intended for a protective PVC sleeve.
Chain & Links
N/A; flat, rectangular ingot construction with rounded corners.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck or laser-etched on a rolled gold plate. The linework on the Buddha's robes and the lotus pedestal shows high-quality contemporary industrial finishing.
Authentication Indicators
The characteristic deep, 'buttery' yellow color is unique to 24K gold. The Hangul inscription is precise, and the lack of 'coppery' oxidation or plating wear suggests solid high-purity gold.
Origin & Maker
South Korea; likely commissioned by a temple or a specialized Korean jeweler like LS Nikko or Korea Gold Exchange.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s–present); reflects modern laser-etching or precision-stamping techniques used in boutique bullion.
Age Estimate
Likely produced within the last 10–15 years based on the crispness of the graphic application.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of wealth and spirituality in East Asian culture, where gold is considered the 'supreme metal' and is used to honor Buddhist deities.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent. The surface shows minor micro-abrasions consistent with handling; no significant dents or edge warping visible. Grading: AU (About Uncirculated).
Value Estimate
Primarily driven by melt value. Calculation: (Spot Gold Price per Gram) x Weight x 0.999. In Korea, these carry a 5-10% premium over spot for the design and temple association.
Care & Maintenance
Pure 24K gold is extremely soft and easily scratched. Store in a soft pouch or the original plastic casing. Clean only with warm soapy water; avoid all abrasive cloths.
Similar Items
PAMP Suisse religious series (Laksmi/Buddha bars), 24K Korean 'Don' gold coins, or temple-issued gold leaf charms.
Interesting Facts
In South Korea, 24K gold is a standard for gifting at first birthdays (Doljanchi) and as spiritual offerings to temples to gain merit.