14K Yellow Gold Vintage Box Clasp with Safety Frame
Jewelry Component: Box Clasp (Tongue and Groove) · Yellow Gold; likely alloyed with copper and silver to provide structural hardness for the clasp mechanism.
Purity: 14K / 585 Fineness; containing 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% alloy metals.
Type
Jewelry Component: Box Clasp (Tongue and Groove)
Purity
14K / 585 Fineness; containing 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% alloy metals.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; likely alloyed with copper and silver to provide structural hardness for the clasp mechanism.
Weight
0.5 - 1.2 grams (clasp component only); weight depends on internal mechanism and solid vs. shell construction.
Description
A classic 14K yellow gold rectangular box clasp, utilized for securing high-end bracelets and necklaces. The piece showcases a professional high-polish finish with a recessed safety frame designed to prevent accidental opening. This is a standard but high-quality jewelry finding valued for its security and ease of use.
Key Features
Incised 14K hallmark, integrated safety latch hinge point, and flat-profile rectangular design for comfortable wear.
Color & Finish
Pale to medium yellow gold with a high-polish finish; visible surface patina and minor pitting/scratches consistent with use.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '14K' on the upper right side of the clasp face; standard US-style fineness mark without additional maker's marks visible.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 8mm x 6mm; fits standard medium-weight bracelets or necklaces.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible; utilitarian gold component designed for structural security.
Clasp & Closure
Rectangular box clasp with side safety bar slot; features a tension-based 'tongue' insert (not fully visible) and a safety latch hinge.
Chain & Links
Not visible; the clasp indicates it would be attached to a multi-link or flat-mesh style chain given the rectangular profile.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped frame with hand-assembled hinge and safety components; solder points at the base indicate attachment to a jewelry strand.
Authentication Indicators
The '14K' stamp is crisp and deep; color is consistent with 14K alloy; no signs of plating wear (brassing) at the edges.
Origin & Maker
Likely USA or Italy; mass-produced jewelry finding widely used by various commercial manufacturers.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (late 20th century, circa 1980s-present); utilizes standard industrial stamping and assembly techniques.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - 2010; design shows modern precision but also signs of physical wear on the gold surface.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition from purely handmade jewelry to high-quality standardized components in modern luxury goods.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the hallmark is clear, though the surface shows micro-abrasions and minor dirt build-up typical of pre-owned gold jewelry.
Value Estimate
$40 - $75 (scrap value approx. $30-$45 depending on exact weight; retail replacement as a part is higher).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft brush and warm soapy water to remove skin oils from the mechanism; do not use heavy pressure on the safety bar to avoid bending.
Similar Items
Lobster claws (more industrial look), spring rings (less secure for heavy items), or hidden/integrated clasps found in luxury watches.
Interesting Facts
Box clasps are often preferred for higher-value items because they can include a secondary 'safety' figure-eight latch for double security.