Small Cast Gold Ingot/Scrap Fragment
Gold Bar/Ingot Fragment · High-purity Yellow Gold with classic buttery warm tones, likely low in alloy metals like copper or silver.
Purity: Estimated 22K-24K purity (91.6% to 99.9% gold content). High saturation suggests a purity of 900 fine or higher.
Type
Gold Bar/Ingot Fragment
Purity
Estimated 22K-24K purity (91.6% to 99.9% gold content). High saturation suggests a purity of 900 fine or higher.
Gold Type
High-purity Yellow Gold with classic buttery warm tones, likely low in alloy metals like copper or silver.
Weight
Estimated 5 to 12 grams based on visible thickness and high density of gold relative to the fabric texture background.
Description
A square-form cast gold fragment featuring rounded corners and a distinct notch on the upper left edge, possibly from a 'nip' test or pouring sprue removal. The surface is textured with micro-indentations typical of sand-casting or open-mold cooling. Its color is exceptionally deep, indicating high purity often associated with investment-grade bullion or dental gold stock.
Key Features
Distinctive yellow color saturation, high density appearance, notched edge, and cooling textures on the top face.
Color & Finish
Deep, rich yellow with a soft matte luster. Surface exhibits characteristic cooling striations, pinholes, and a natural cast patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. This appears to be a 'poured' or hand-cast piece, possibly an end-cut from a larger bar or a small assay sample.
Dimensions Estimate
Approx. 15mm x 15mm x 3mm; resembles a large postage stamp in surface area but with significant depth.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a monolithic metallic specimen.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; no attachment points for jewelry use are present.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid cast body.
Craftsmanship Details
Basic industrial casting. The piece shows no signs of high-precision machining, suggesting it was poured and allowed to cool in a simple open mold.
Authentication Indicators
The high luster combined with deep yellow hue is difficult to replicate with plating. Dense, rounded edges suggest soft, high-karat metal rather than base metal alloys.
Origin & Maker
Unknown/Generic. Likely produced by a small refinery, jeweler's workshop, or as a recovery from a smelting process.
Era & Period
Contemporary or Industrial; likely a modern byproduct of a refining or smelting process.
Age Estimate
Indeterminate; while gold does not oxidize, the surface dings suggest a piece that has been handled in a workshop environment.
Cultural Significance
Represents the raw store of wealth; gold in this form is historically used for trade, jewelry manufacturing, or as a portable hedge against currency fluctuation.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Utility/Bullion grade). Shows signs of handling, minor surface scratches, and a dark inclusion/impurity spot on the right edge.
Value Estimate
Primarily Melt Value. Calculated as weight in grams x current spot price x 0.95 (conservative purity estimate). Value is entirely in the metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Minimal care required. Store in a soft pouch to prevent it from scratching softer items; clean with a soft cloth and mild soap if needed.
Similar Items
Gold nuggets (natural shape), PAMP Suisse minted bars (stamped/geometric), jeweler's grain (small pellets).
Interesting Facts
Gold must be heated to 1,948°F (1,064°C) to reach this liquid state. The texture seen on top is the result of the 'skin' of the metal solidifying first while gas escapes from the center.