Yellow Gold Plated Industrial Component or Jewelry Pin
Industrial/Jewelry Hardware (Pin, Lug, or Rivet Component) · Yellow Gold tone, likely a result of plating over a copper, brass, or architectural bronze base alloy.
Purity: Likely Gold Plated or Gold Filled (0%-5% gold content). No visible solid gold fineness marks; the surface exhibits a brassy yellow hue often associated with base metal alloys or flash-plating.
Type
Industrial/Jewelry Hardware (Pin, Lug, or Rivet Component)
Purity
Likely Gold Plated or Gold Filled (0%-5% gold content). No visible solid gold fineness marks; the surface exhibits a brassy yellow hue often associated with base metal alloys or flash-plating.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold tone, likely a result of plating over a copper, brass, or architectural bronze base alloy.
Weight
0.1 - 0.3 grams. Extremely lightweight, consistent with a small hollow or semi-solid functional component.
Description
A small, cylindrical gold-toned metal pin featuring a distinct flared base and a recessed groove (neck) near the bottom. This component is typical of precision-engineered hardware often found in high-end watches or as a structural pin in hinged jewelry. While visually gold in color, its proportions and lack of hallmarks suggest it is a functional alloy part rather than a solid gold investment piece.
Key Features
Machined step-down base, friction-fit cylindrical body, and a slight indentation at the tip suggesting it serves as a pivot or securing pin.
Color & Finish
Brassy yellow with a polished surface. Shows slight dulling and minor surface scratches indicative of friction or mechanical use.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. The small scale and industrial design suggest a part of a larger mechanism where individual stamping is not standard.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 5mm - 8mm in length and 1.5mm - 2mm in diameter; fits within the palm's center skin folds.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a purely structural or functional gold-toned metal piece.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. The item appears to be a male-end pin or a friction-fit rivet intended to be inserted into a female sleeve.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the flared base and 'neck' suggest it may be a terminal pin for a watch bracelet or a heavy jewelry link assembly.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision lathe-turned construction with clean shoulders and a consistent diameter, designed for mechanical tolerances.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold include the extremely brassy, 'greenish' yellow tone and the lack of hallmarks on a machined piece. Most solid gold components of this size are for high-end luxury items and would typically bear a microscopic laser-hallmark or be part of a larger hallmarked assembly.
Origin & Maker
Unknown industrial manufacturer. The lack of branding suggests it is a mass-produced component for jewelry, watches, or electronics.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Industrial. The precision machining and finish are consistent with late 20th-century to modern manufacturing.
Age Estimate
Likely 1990s to present. The clean lines and consistent finishing suggest modern CNC or lathe turning.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of industrial precision and decorative aesthetics, common in the luxury hardware and horology sectors.
Condition Notes
Good. Shows light surface wear and minor oxidation consistent with handling. No structural deformation or metal fatigue visible.
Value Estimate
Negligible/Nominal. This item has no significant melt value and serves primarily as a replacement part. Value is less than $1 USD unless part of a specific luxury brand repair kit.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners which may strip the gold plating. Clean with a soft lint-free cloth.
Similar Items
Watch spring bar ends, link rivets, earring jacket pins, or specialized electronic connectors.
Interesting Facts
In the jewelry industry, such pins are often made of more durable materials like steel or brass and then gold-plated to ensure structural strength that pure gold lacks.