Machined Brass Industrial Bushing or Flange (Non-Gold Brass Item)
Hardware/Machinery Component (Industrial Brass) · N/A - Brass (Copper-Zinc Alloy). It mimics the color of yellow gold but lacks the chemical properties of an noble metal.
Purity: 0K - Non-precious. This item is an alloy of copper and zinc (Brass), not gold. It contains 0% gold content.
Type
Hardware/Machinery Component (Industrial Brass)
Purity
0K - Non-precious. This item is an alloy of copper and zinc (Brass), not gold. It contains 0% gold content.
Gold Type
N/A - Brass (Copper-Zinc Alloy). It mimics the color of yellow gold but lacks the chemical properties of an noble metal.
Weight
Estimated 15-25 grams. Brass is less dense than gold; if this were solid 18K gold, it would feel significantly heavier in the hand.
Description
This is a circular brass flange or bushing featuring a large central clearance hole and three smaller countersunk holes designed for fasteners. Often mistaken for gold due to its 'yellow' hue, the surface patina, tool marks, and specific green oxidation (verdigris) in the crevices identify it as architectural or mechanical brass hardware.
Key Features
Precision-drilled countersunk holes, concentric machining rings on the face, and industrial-grade thickness.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow with greenish-brown oxidation spots. Surface shows circular machining marks and pitting inconsistent with jewelry finishing.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. Quality gold items typically feature purity stamps (e.g., 14K, 18K, 750). This item lacks any jeweler hallmarks.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 18mm-20mm in diameter with a 6mm-8mm central bore; thickness appears to be 5mm-8mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item features three countersunk screw holes for mechanical mounting.
Clasp & Closure
None. This is a functional mechanical part, not a piece of wearable jewelry.
Chain & Links
N/A. This is a solid, lathe-turned circular component.
Craftsmanship Details
Manufactured via metal lathe turning and drill press operations. Functional utility quality rather than artistic jewelry craftsmanship.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: Green oxidation in the center hole is a characteristic of basemetals (copper/zinc) reacting to moisture. Gold does not oxidize green.
Origin & Maker
Unknown industrial manufacturer. The part is likely a component from a plumbing fixture, lighting assembly, or hardware tool.
Era & Period
Modern industrial. Produced using contemporary CNC or manual lathe machining techniques.
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to contemporary. Surfaces show mechanical wear consistent with utility use rather than ornamental age.
Cultural Significance
Represents the industrial revolution's move toward mass-produced interchangeable hardware parts.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface scratching, pitting, and oxidation. The presence of green corrosion indicates high copper content found in brass.
Value Estimate
Melt value of scrap brass (pennies per ounce). No significant precious metal value or numismatic value.
Care & Maintenance
If used for purpose, clean with a brass polish (like Brasso). Keep away from jewelry as it may tarnish real gold by contact.
Similar Items
Often confused with heavy gold band rings or gold-plated sink stoppers, but lacks the refinement of a luxury item.
Interesting Facts
Brass has been used as a 'poor man's gold' for centuries due to its luster, but its primary value lies in its low friction and corrosion resistance in mechanical applications.