14K Yellow Gold Frosted Ball Stud Earring
Earrings (Studs) · Yellow Gold, likely alloyed with silver and copper to achieve a warm classic tone.
Purity: 14K (58.5% pure gold). This karat is the industry standard for durability in everyday jewelry.
Type
Earrings (Studs)
Purity
14K (58.5% pure gold). This karat is the industry standard for durability in everyday jewelry.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold, likely alloyed with silver and copper to achieve a warm classic tone.
Weight
0.4 to 0.6 grams for the single earring including the butterfly back. This is consistent with a lightweight, hollow-form construction common in smaller stud jewelry.
Description
This is a classic minimalist 14K yellow gold stud earring featuring a spherical bead with a sophisticated frosted finish. The textured surface catches the light differently than a high-polish bead, offering a subtle, shimmering 'stardust' aesthetic. It is a versatile piece designed for daily wear or as a secondary piercing accent.
Key Features
Distinguished by its 'frosted' or 'sandblasted' surface texture on the ball, contrasting with the smooth polished gold of the hardware.
Color & Finish
The primary ball features a 'frosted' or 'stardust' sandblasted finish, creating a matte, glittering effect. The post and butterfly back are high-polish yellow gold.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '14K' or '585' on the post or the flat surface of the butterfly back. No specific maker's mark is visible in the image.
Dimensions Estimate
The ball diameter is approximately 4mm to 5mm; post length is standard at roughly 10mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The textural interest is provided entirely by the frosted treatment of the gold surface.
Clasp & Closure
Matching butterfly (friction) back. It utilizes a tension-based grip on the notched post for security.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; single solid post construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-fabricated. The ball is likely hollow to save weight and improve comfort, whereas the post is soldered to the sphere with a clean, invisible joint.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic deep yellow hue of 14K; standard butterfly back proportions; notched post for secure closure. Lack of flaking suggests solid gold rather than plating.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced, common in jewelry manufacture from Italy, Turkey, or the USA. No specific luxury brand markers are present.
Era & Period
Contemporary (1990s-present). The sandblasted finish and butterfly back style are very common in modern commercial jewelry production.
Age Estimate
Modern production, likely manufactured within the last 15-20 years.
Cultural Significance
Stud earrings are a universal symbol of understated elegance and are often among the first pieces of jewelry gifted in various cultures.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The texture remains intact with no visible flattened spots; the post appears straight and the butterfly back remains functional.
Value Estimate
$35 - $60 USD. The value is primarily based on the gold weight (melt value), with a modest retail markup for the labor involved in the specialty finish.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners frequently as they can eventually smooth out the frosted texture; store separately to prevent the texture from scratching other polished jewelry.
Similar Items
Polished gold ball studs, diamond solitaire studs, or 18K yellow gold textured spheres.
Interesting Facts
The 'frosted' look is traditionally achieved by sandblasting the gold with fine particles or using a diamond-tipped tool to create thousands of tiny indentations.