Nickel-Brass Silca Dimple Key Blank (Gold-Tone)
Hardware / Key Blank (Security Dimple Style) · Not applicable; gold-colored industrial alloy (typically Brass/Nickel-Silver).
Purity: Non-gold; 0K (0% Gold Content). The item is a nickel-brass alloy that mimics the visual appearance of gold.
Type
Hardware / Key Blank (Security Dimple Style)
Purity
Non-gold; 0K (0% Gold Content). The item is a nickel-brass alloy that mimics the visual appearance of gold.
Gold Type
Not applicable; gold-colored industrial alloy (typically Brass/Nickel-Silver).
Weight
8 to 12 grams
Description
This is a security-style dimple key blank from the Italian manufacturer Silca. Contrary to its gold-like appearance, it is an industrial object crafted from a durable nickel-brass alloy designed for high-friction use in locks. It features a characteristic wide bow for grip and a blade with visible dimples rather than traditional jagged teeth.
Key Features
Distinctive 'SILCA' branding, dimple-cut security blade, rectangular bow with rounded corners, and a gold-colored brass finish.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow/gold-tone with a textured matte bow and a machined, semi-polished blade. Surface exhibits metallic luster typical of brass-based alloys.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'SILCA' with the corporate logo (an 'S' within a diamond/rhombus shape) on the bow. No precious metal hallmarks present.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: ~65mm; Width of bow: ~25mm; Blade thickness: ~2.5mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The blade features industrial dimple-cut divots for lock pin alignment.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; features a standard circular key ring hole in the bow.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid machined metal construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-engineered via industrial casting and milling. The dimples are drilled at varying depths to match a specific lock cylinder's pin configuration.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for gold: Presence of a hardware brand (Silca), industrial machining marks, lack of purity stamps (like 14K or 585), and a color shade more indicative of brass than high-purity gold.
Origin & Maker
Italy; manufactured by Silca S.p.A., a market leader in key duplication and lock hardware.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century to present). This specific dimple-key design is common in modern high-security lock systems.
Age Estimate
Modern production, likely manufactured within the last 10-20 years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the evolution of home and commercial security from traditional 'skeleton' or jagged-edge keys to precision-machined dimple systems.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the item appears to be an uncut or factory-cut blank with minor surface scratches consistent with storage in a drawer or on a keyring. No structural deformation.
Value Estimate
$2.00 - $5.00 USD. Value is based on its utility as a security key blank; it contains zero melt value in precious metals.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent oxidation (patina). If tarnished, a standard metal/brass polish will restore the gold-tone shine. Not susceptible to the same risks as soft 24K gold.
Similar Items
Solid gold keys have been produced as commemorative gifts or 'keys to the city,' but they rarely feature the intricate dimple-drilling seen on this industrial key.
Interesting Facts
While not gold, Silca keys are the 'gold standard' in the locksmithing industry. Brass is used for keys because it is non-sparking, corrosion-resistant, and 'self-lubricating' against pin tumblers.