Knurled Brass Threaded Heat-Set Insert (Gold-Tone Industrial Hardware)
Industrial Fastener / Hardware · Gold-tone brass alloy; yellow-brass coloring imitating the appearance of gold.
Purity: 0K (Non-precious). This item is composed of brass (copper-zinc alloy) with no actual gold gold content.
Type
Industrial Fastener / Hardware
Purity
0K (Non-precious). This item is composed of brass (copper-zinc alloy) with no actual gold gold content.
Gold Type
Gold-tone brass alloy; yellow-brass coloring imitating the appearance of gold.
Weight
0.5 to 1.5 grams (estimated based on size relative to skin texture).
Description
This is a brass heat-set threaded insert commonly used in 3D printing and plastic manufacturing. It is designed to be pressed into a pre-drilled or printed hole using heat, where the exterior knurling locks it into the plastic to provide a durable metal thread for screws. While it has a yellow metallic 'gold' appearance, it is an industrial component rather than jewelry or bullion.
Key Features
Internal mechanical threading and external knurling designed for high-friction nesting in thermoplastics.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow metallic hue with a knurled textured surface and machined interior threading.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible; industrial hardware typically lacks purity stamps as it is not precious metal.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: 5-8mm; Diameter: 4-6mm; Internal Threading: likely M3 or M4 metric standard.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item is a singular piece of machined metal.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; features internal screw threads for mechanical fastening.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; cylindrical body with straight-knurling or diamond-knurling pattern for grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision machined using CNC lathing; knurling applied via mechanical rolling/stamping.
Authentication Indicators
The color, texture, and mechanical function identify this as brass. A magnet test would likely be non-reactive (like gold), but a simple acid or scratch test would reveal a base metal substrate.
Origin & Maker
Mass-produced industrial hardware, likely of Chinese or generic manufacture.
Era & Period
Contemporary Industrial (late 20th century to present).
Age Estimate
Modern production, likely manufactured within the last 10 years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the DIY maker movement and the rise of desktop 3D printing technology.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Shows signs of surface oxidation and some physical deformation on the top rim, suggesting it may have been used or roughly handled.
Value Estimate
Functional/Melt Value: Negligible. Retail price for such hardware is typically $0.05 to $0.20 per unit. Gold value: $0.00.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent 'verdigris' (green oxidation). Can be cleaned with vinegar or brass polish if desired.
Similar Items
Solid gold beads or spacers in jewelry may look similar at a distance but will have smooth interiors and jeweler's hallmarks (e.g., 14K, 585).
Interesting Facts
Brass inserts like these are the backbone of modern rapid prototyping, allowing plastic parts to be repeatedly assembled and disassembled without stripping the holes.