Gold-Plated Copper Wire Induction Coil
Industrial/Electronic Component (Inductor) · Yellow Gold (surface plating)
Purity: Likely Flash Gold Plating (Less than 0.1% total content)
Type
Industrial/Electronic Component (Inductor)
Purity
Likely Flash Gold Plating (Less than 0.1% total content)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (surface plating)
Weight
0.5 to 1.5 grams (Total weight including core)
Description
This is a low-profile, surface-mount induction coil removed from an electronic device. It consists of multiple turns of gold-plated wire wound into a trapezoidal shape, often used for wireless charging, NFC antennas, or signal processing in mobile devices.
Key Features
Precise geometric winding, gold-plated surface for conductivity/corrosion resistance, integrated resin bond
Color & Finish
Vivid deep yellow with a high-luster, metallic-sheen finish over microscopic threading
Hallmarks & Stamps
None (Functional industrial component)
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 12mm x 10mm; 2mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features translucent amber-colored adhesive/resin at the wire termination
Clasp & Closure
N/A; stationary soldered connection point (visible as a break in the coil)
Chain & Links
N/A; tightly wound continuous solenoid structure
Craftsmanship Details
Precision machine-wound with micro-tolerance for inductance accuracy; vacuum-deposited or electro-chemical plating.
Authentication Indicators
Color suggests electroplating rather than solid gold; absence of jewelry hallmarks indicates industrial origin.
Origin & Maker
Likely East Asian electronics manufacturing/OEM
Era & Period
Contemporary Digital Era (21st Century)
Age Estimate
Circa 2010-2024
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'E-waste' era of modern technology and the hidden use of precious metals in consumer electronics.
Condition Notes
Damaged/Scrap; the coil has been removed from its substrate, showing frayed adhesive and broken lead wires.
Value Estimate
Negligible/Scrap value; primarily copper content. Not commercially viable for gold recovery in single units.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid bending; if keeping as a curiosity, store in a dry environment to prevent the copper core from oxidizing at the break points.
Similar Items
Copper-enamel magnet wire (not plated) or silver-plated high-frequency inductors.
Interesting Facts
Gold is used in electronics not for value, but because it is the most corrosion-resistant conductive metal, ensuring signals pass without interference over time.