Gold-Plated Base Metal Stud Earring with Plastic Earnut
Earring (Stud Subcategory) · Pale Yellow Gold tone (Plating/Coating)
Purity: Non-solid gold; likely gold-plated or gold-washed over a base metal (brass/copper). The green oxidation indicates a high non-precious copper content.
Type
Earring (Stud Subcategory)
Purity
Non-solid gold; likely gold-plated or gold-washed over a base metal (brass/copper). The green oxidation indicates a high non-precious copper content.
Gold Type
Pale Yellow Gold tone (Plating/Coating)
Weight
0.5 - 1.5 grams including backing; negligible gold weight due to plating thickness.
Description
This is a mass-produced costume stud earring featuring a pale yellow gold plating over a base metal core. The reverse side shows significant wear, with the gold layer thinning to reveal a silver-toned metal beneath. The presence of green verdigris (corrosion) on the post and plastic backing indicates that the base metal is likely a copper-based alloy that has reacted to moisture and skin oils.
Key Features
Plastic-reinforced earnut, significant verdigris (green) oxidation, and bi-metal appearance due to plate loss.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow gold color with significant metallic silver-colored wear on the edges where plating has rubbed off; satin-to-rough finish with heavy patina and oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks or purity stamps; the earring post and back lack the standard '14K' or '585' markings usually found on fine jewelry.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 6mm-8mm in diameter (standard petite stud size).
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible on the reverse; likely a bead, faux pearl, or costume crystal on the obscured front face.
Clasp & Closure
Push-back butterfly style butterfly back reinforced with a clear plastic/silicone comfort disc; typical of fashion or costume jewelry.
Chain & Links
N/A; Solid post construction with visible solder point connecting the post to the earring body.
Craftsmanship Details
Simple solder joint for the post; cast metal body; machine-stamped plastic-and-metal backing. Low-tier manufacturing quality.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags: Green discoloration (verdigris) is never present on high-karat solid gold. The silver-colored metal showing through at friction points confirms this is plated base metal rather than solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Mass-produced fashion jewelry; likely manufactured in East Asia (China or Korea) for the retail costume market.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern costume jewelry (Late 20th century to present).
Age Estimate
Circa 1990s - 2010s; based on the degradation of the plating and the style of the plastic-backed earnut.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Fast Fashion' jewelry movement of the late 20th century, designed for temporary aesthetic appeal rather than long-term value or heirloom quality.
Condition Notes
Poor Condition. The plating is failing, the post shows heavy oxidation, and the metal has developed verdigris which can cause skin irritation/allergic reactions (Nickel/Copper).
Value Estimate
Negligible/Resale value near zero. Melt value is $0.00 as there is no recoverable precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Remove immediately as the oxidation may cause ear infections or staining. Not suitable for ultrasonic cleaning; discard recommendation if skin irritation occurs.
Similar Items
Gold-filled earrings (thicker gold layer, more durable), Vermeil (gold over sterling silver), or 10K/14K Solid Gold studs (hypoallergenic and hold value).
Interesting Facts
The green residue seen here is called verdigris, a natural patina that forms when copper, brass, or bronze is exposed to air and acetic acid (found in skin oils).