Vintage Industrial Gold-Plated Brass Component or Watch Strap Terminal
Jewelry Finding or Industrial Component · Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy (likely Brass or Copper).
Purity: Non-solid; visual characteristics suggest thin gold plating (Flash Plate) or Brass/Bronze alloy. Approximate gold content: <1%.
Type
Jewelry Finding or Industrial Component
Purity
Non-solid; visual characteristics suggest thin gold plating (Flash Plate) or Brass/Bronze alloy. Approximate gold content: <1%.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy (likely Brass or Copper).
Weight
3 to 5 grams
Description
This item is a functional flat metal component rather than a finished piece of jewelry. It features a long vertical bar with notched ends and a smaller cross-arm with a circular aperture. Its geometry suggests it served as a structural reinforcement, a clasp hinge, or a terminal for a watch band or industrial strap.
Key Features
Interlocking notched ends and a side mounting bracket with a pre-drilled hole for a pivot pin or screw.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow gold color with significant surface wear, oxidation, and uneven patina. The finish was likely originally high polish but now shows dulling and spotty residue.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. The absence of purity marks (like 14K or 585) on a piece of this size suggests it is not solid gold.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 50mm - 60mm in length for the main bar; 2mm - 3mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None present.
Clasp & Closure
Functional mechanical end-tabs; one U-shaped notch and one T-shaped tab for interlocking or hinge attachment.
Chain & Links
Not a chain; flat, stamped sheet metal construction with a perpendicular arm for mechanical pivoting or screw-fastening.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped from sheet metal with cold-bent angles. The edges are unrefined and industrial in nature.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold include the uneven color, the 'brassy' undertone in areas of wear, and the mechanical, stamped nature of the tabs which are uncommon in high-karat gold smithing.
Origin & Maker
Unknown; likely a mass-produced mechanical part or watch hardware component.
Era & Period
Modern Industrial or Mid-20th Century utilitarian design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s - 1990s.
Cultural Significance
Minimal; represents the mass production of functional hardware during the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface irregularities, possible delamination of the gold flash, and dark oxidative spots consistent with moisture exposure on base metal.
Value Estimate
Negligible. Nominal value as a replacement part for hardware; negligible precious metal melt value. Estimated: $0.10 - $1.00.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemicals; clean only with a soft damp cloth. Excessive polishing will remove the remaining gold plating.
Similar Items
Watch band fold-over clasps, brass electrical contact strips, or vintage briefcase hinge hardware.
Interesting Facts
Items like this are often found in 'junk' jewelry lots and are frequently confused with scrap gold despite being primarily base metal.