Weathered Gold Plannchet or Fragment with Heavy Patina
Gold Scrap / Raw Ingot Fragment · Yellow Gold (Alloyed with Copper and likely Silver or Zinc)
Purity: Indeterminate; appearance suggests lower karat (10k-14k) or gold plating over base metal
Type
Gold Scrap / Raw Ingot Fragment
Purity
Indeterminate; appearance suggests lower karat (10k-14k) or gold plating over base metal
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Alloyed with Copper and likely Silver or Zinc)
Weight
Estimated 2 - 5 grams based on thickness and apparent density
Description
A dense, irregularly shaped fragment of yellow metal. The piece features a flat, heavily abraded surface with deep linear scratches and rounded edges, suggesting high-friction contact or tumbling. One edge shows a distinct notch, possibly from a mechanical shearing tool or destructive testing (acid/file test).
Key Features
Uneven surface texture, deep striations, lack of formal shaping, and a notable indentation on the upper right corner.
Color & Finish
Dull brassy yellow with heavy surface oxidation, deep scratches, and localized dark tarnish
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible on the provided surface; likely removed by wear or never present
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 12mm x 15mm with a 2-3mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None present
Clasp & Closure
None; raw or severed edge visible
Chain & Links
N/A; solid piece construction
Craftsmanship Details
N/A; industrial/mechanical form with no evidence of artisan finishing.
Authentication Indicators
The reddish-brown spots suggest iron contamination or base metal core oxidation (indicative of plating), while the overall luster lacks the rich buttery hue of high-karat gold.
Origin & Maker
Unknown; lacks brand identifiers or mint marks
Era & Period
Modern utilitarian or industrial scrap
Age Estimate
20th Century to present; wear appears consistent with mechanical abrasion rather than ancient burial
Cultural Significance
Minimal; represents utilitarian commodity gold rather than artistic or cultural heritage.
Condition Notes
Poor / Scrap Grade; item is heavily scuffed with visible nicks and significant surface contamination.
Value Estimate
Likely melt value only; if solid 14k, value is based on daily spot price per gram minus refining fees.
Care & Maintenance
Requires ultrasonic cleaning and professional acid/XRF testing to determine true gold content before any refining or polishing.
Similar Items
Dental gold bridge fragments, casting spills, or heavily worn gold-plated brass hardware.
Interesting Facts
Gold fragments like this are often the result of destructive jewelry testing or remnants from industrial jewelry casting processes.