Vintage 14K Rose Gold Integrated Box Clasp with Safety Chain Fragment
Bracelet/Necklace Component (Box Clasp and Safety Chain) · Rose Gold; the reddish-pink hue indicates a significant copper alloy content characteristic of mid-century aesthetics.
Purity: Likely 14K (58.5% gold content), typical for vintage jewelry of this copper-rich hue. It appears to be solid gold rather than plated based on the consistent color at the points of fracture.
Type
Bracelet/Necklace Component (Box Clasp and Safety Chain)
Purity
Likely 14K (58.5% gold content), typical for vintage jewelry of this copper-rich hue. It appears to be solid gold rather than plated based on the consistent color at the points of fracture.
Gold Type
Rose Gold; the reddish-pink hue indicates a significant copper alloy content characteristic of mid-century aesthetics.
Weight
Estimated 1.5 - 2.5 grams. The bulk of the weight is in the rectangular box mechanism, with negligible weight in the frayed wire fragment.
Description
A damaged rose gold box clasp featuring a flat, rectangular design intended to sit flush against the wrist. The item shows severe mechanical failure, with the safety chain connection point frayed and the main body showing heavy surface abrasions. It represents a common component of vintage 'brick link' or 'tank' style bracelets.
Key Features
Rectangular low-profile design, specialized copper-heavy rose gold alloy, and a soldered safety-loop eyelet (now damaged).
Color & Finish
Warm rose-gold pink with a high-polish finish on the flat surfaces. Significant surface scratches and a dulling patina indicate long-term use and friction.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible in the current orientation. Stamps are typically located on the tongue (insert) of the clasp or the underside of the box; there are faint indentations on the side that may be worn assay marks.
Dimensions Estimate
Box measures approximately 10mm x 6mm x 3mm. The wire fragment extends roughly 8mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None present. This is a purely functional mechanical component.
Clasp & Closure
Male-side Box Clasp (integrated) with a frayed figure-eight safety wire or safety chain attachment. The internal spring mechanism appears to be missing or submerged.
Chain & Links
Includes a frayed segment of a safety chain, appearing as fine-gauge rose gold wire that has been crushed or snapped from tension.
Craftsmanship Details
The box is formed from stamped sheet gold and soldered. The safety chain was likely hand-soldered to the bridge. The finishing shows standard commercial quality for the mid-20th century.
Authentication Indicators
The color is consistent with 14K rose gold. The lack of 'brassing' (yellow or white metal showing through) suggests solid construction. The jagged edges at the break point show a solid metal structure rather than a hollow shell.
Origin & Maker
Likely Western European (Italian or French) or North American. The construction suggests mass-produced commercial jewelry rather than a high-jewelry house.
Era & Period
Mid-Century (1940s-1960s). The specific 'pink gold' alloy was extremely popular during the Retro and Mid-Century eras for women's watch bracelets and cocktail jewelry.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the alloy color and the style of the rectangular integrated box clasp.
Cultural Significance
Box clasps of this style were the standard for 'heirloom' jewelry, designed to be invisible and secure, symbolizing the high craftsmanship of 20th-century everyday luxury.
Condition Notes
Poor/Scrap. The item is structurally compromised. The metal is warped, the safety chain is shredded, and there are deep gouges on the flat plate. It is missing its connecting 'tongue' piece.
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value (approx. $60-$90 USD depending on exact weight and daily gold spot prices). It holds negligible collectible value in its current broken state.
Care & Maintenance
Requires professional repair or melting. If salvaged, clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners if the internal spring is steel, as it may rust if water remains inside.
Similar Items
Modern lobster claws (functional but less aesthetic), 18K yellow gold box clasps (richer color, softer metal), or gold-filled fold-over clasps (cheaper construction).
Interesting Facts
Rose gold was famously banned in several territories during wartime periods because copper (the alloy metal) was needed for ammunition, leading to a surge in its popularity as a luxury statement immediately after WWII.