High Purity Yellow Gold Tie Clip Or Money Clip Fragment
Jewelry Component / Men's Accessory (Tie Clip or Money Clip) · Yellow Gold (High copper-to-silver alloy ratio giving a rich, warm golden hue).
Purity: Likely 18K (75%) or 22K (91.6%) based on deep saturation and low light reflection; requires testing for verification.
Type
Jewelry Component / Men's Accessory (Tie Clip or Money Clip)
Purity
Likely 18K (75%) or 22K (91.6%) based on deep saturation and low light reflection; requires testing for verification.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High copper-to-silver alloy ratio giving a rich, warm golden hue).
Weight
Estimated 2 to 4 grams (Based on visible volume and metal thickness).
Description
A sleek, functional yellow gold accessory, likely a tie clip or a small money clip. It features a flat, rectangular face with a brushed finish that transitions into a folded tension bar on the reverse. The design is understated and emphasizes the rich color of high-karat gold over ornate decoration.
Key Features
Tension-fold construction, brushed surface finish, and deep yellow saturation indicating high purity for an accessory piece.
Color & Finish
Deep golden yellow with a brushed or satin surface finish; shows characteristic light scratching consistent with soft, high-karat gold.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks are clearly visible in the provided image; typical locations would be on the inner fold or the reverse side of the flat plate.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: ~25-35mm; Width: ~6-8mm (Small, accessory-scale fit).
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; the design focuses on minimalist metalwork and textural contrast.
Clasp & Closure
Integrated tension/spring fold mechanism; a simple bent-metal design typical of late 20th-century accessories.
Chain & Links
N/A - This is a solid-form accessory; the edge appears smooth, suggesting a die-cut or hand-finished sheet construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Fabricated from rolled gold sheet; the fold is precisely executed to maintain tension without snapping, suggesting competent metallurgical work.
Authentication Indicators
The rich, buttery color is a strong indicator of high gold content (18K+). The lack of 'flaking' suggests solid gold rather than plating.
Origin & Maker
Unknownmaker; the utilitarian form is common in global gold centers like Italy, India, or the United States.
Era & Period
Modern / Mid-to-Late 20th Century (Post-1950s utilitarian design with a minimalist aesthetic).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970 - 2000; the construction style and surface wear suggest significant age but modern manufacturing techniques.
Cultural Significance
Represents mid-century and modern success symbols; gold accessories like this were standard attire for business professionals throughout the 20th century.
Condition Notes
Good; showing minor surface abrasions and micro-scratches. The tension appears intact, though the right edge shows slightly ragged finishing.
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value based on weight ($150 - $250 USD estimated) with a small premium for functional accessory use.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid professional machine polishing as it may remove the intentional brushed texture.
Similar Items
Gold-filled (GF) or 10K plated versions would appear paler or show 'brassing' at the fold points where the friction is highest.
Interesting Facts
High-karat gold accessories were often chosen for personal gifts in professional settings as they maintain value better than gold-filled alternatives.