Yellow Gold Tone Ball Stud Earring (Single/Incomplete Set)
Earrings (Stud / Ball) · Yellow Gold Tone; likely a base metal alloy finished in a 14K-color gold plating.
Purity: Likely Gold-Plated or Low-Karat Gold; the 'Costume Jewelry' label suggests base metal with a thin gold coating or very low fineness (9K-10K).
Type
Earrings (Stud / Ball)
Purity
Likely Gold-Plated or Low-Karat Gold; the 'Costume Jewelry' label suggests base metal with a thin gold coating or very low fineness (9K-10K).
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Tone; likely a base metal alloy finished in a 14K-color gold plating.
Weight
0.1 - 0.5 grams; typical for a single small hollow or thin-walled ball stud.
Description
A classic yellow gold-tone ball stud earring, characterized by its simple spherical design and vibrant reflective finish. Effortlessly versatile, this piece is a staple of everyday jewelry collections, intended for a minimalist aesthetic or as a secondary piercing accent.
Key Features
Spherical geometry, high-shine polish, and lightweight construction for all-day comfort.
Color & Finish
Classic warm yellow gold hue with a high-polish mirror finish; some surface scuffing visible under zoom.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks visible in the image. Generally located on the post or the butterfly backing (not shown).
Dimensions Estimate
3mm - 5mm diameter; standard petite ball stud size.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; plain metal sphere design.
Clasp & Closure
Friction post (assumed); usually requires a butterfly or silicone back for security.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; single solid-state stud construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Likely machine-stamped or cast from a two-part mold and soldered to a post; industrial-scale production quality.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold: The 'Costume Jewelry' retail tag strongly indicates the item is not solid high-karat gold. Lack of visible hallmarking on the sphere itself.
Origin & Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer; sold through 'Value Village' (thrift/resale retailer).
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present); a timeless, mass-produced staple design.
Age Estimate
Likely produced within the last 10-20 years based on modern thrift labeling and clean finish.
Cultural Significance
A universal fashion symbol representing minimalism and practicality; often the first type of jewelry worn after a piercing.
Condition Notes
Good; surface shows minor scratches and a dark reflection potentially indicating surface wear or oxidation. Retail tag attached suggests secondary market status.
Value Estimate
Minimal ($1.00 - $5.00); value is primarily decorative/nominal. The retail price tag of $2.99 reflects thrift store costume jewelry pricing.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners if gold-plated to prevent finish loss; store individually to avoid scratching.
Similar Items
14K Solid Gold Ball Studs (higher gold content), 18K Yellow Gold 'Perlee' style studs, or Gold Vermeil variations.
Interesting Facts
Ball studs are among the oldest earring designs, with silver and gold versions found in archaeological sites dating back to the Roman Empire and Ancient Sumeria.