Vintage Industrial Gold & Precious Metal Scale Pan
Measurement Equipment Accessory / Gold Scale Tray · N/A - Item is made of base metal (Brass/Bronze alloy) with oxidized patina.
Purity: Non-gold; Brass/Bronze composition. Not solid gold, gold-filled, or gold-plated.
Type
Measurement Equipment Accessory / Gold Scale Tray
Purity
Non-gold; Brass/Bronze composition. Not solid gold, gold-filled, or gold-plated.
Gold Type
N/A - Item is made of base metal (Brass/Bronze alloy) with oxidized patina.
Weight
150 - 250 grams (estimated pan weight without balance assembly)
Description
An antique industrial weighing tray from a mechanical balance scale, typically used for weighing minerals, gold ore, or nuggets in a workshop or laboratory setting. The piece exhibits a heavy patina characteristic of aged brass or cupric alloys.
Key Features
Wide, shallow basin for easy loading/unloading; cast iron or heavy steel base; industrial mechanical cantilever arm.
Color & Finish
Dull ochre and greenish-brown patina; aged matte finish with significant oxidation and surface pitting.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Partially illegible embossed maker's mark on the scale base (appears to be 'FORCE'); no purity stamps present.
Dimensions Estimate
Pan diameter: 5 - 7 inches; intended for large-scale weighing of nuggets or bulk precious metals.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; utilitarian industrial design.
Clasp & Closure
N/A; circular tray resting on a mechanical fulcrum arm.
Chain & Links
N/A; solid cast metal structural components.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast metal construction with a stamped or turned basin; utilitarian industrial assembly with exposed rivets and pivot points.
Authentication Indicators
Visual oxidation (green/brown) indicates lack of gold content; magnetic base tests (if done) would likely show iron content in the frame.
Origin & Maker
Likely European or American industrial manufacturing; 'FORCE' or 'FORC...' branding suggests a mechanical balance maker.
Era & Period
Early to Mid-20th Century Industrial (circa 1920-1950).
Age Estimate
70 - 100 years old based on casting techniques and level of oxidation.
Cultural Significance
Represents the industrialization of the precious metals trade and the transition from hand-scales to mechanical laboratory balances.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface oxidation, verdigris, pitting, and possible structural rusting at the base. One edge of the pan shows mechanical wear.
Value Estimate
$20 - $65 (Antique/Industrial decor value). Local scrap value for brass is minimal ($0.50 - $1.00); no intrinsic gold value.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft brush; treat with microcrystalline wax (Renaissance Wax) to prevent further oxidation; do not use abrasive polishers.
Similar Items
Torsion balances, apothecary scales, or Roman steelyard scales.
Interesting Facts
Scales like these were essential in assay offices during the gold rush era to determine the exact value of raw ore before refining.