Silk Gold-Tone Brass Cylinder Key
Key (Simulated Gold) · Imitation Yellow Gold (Brass Alloy)
Purity: Non-gold; Brass/Nickel Silver alloy with a gold-tone finish. Does not contain significant gold content (0% purity).
Type
Key (Simulated Gold)
Purity
Non-gold; Brass/Nickel Silver alloy with a gold-tone finish. Does not contain significant gold content (0% purity).
Gold Type
Imitation Yellow Gold (Brass Alloy)
Weight
10-15 grams (standard brass key weight)
Description
This is a standard industrial key blank produced by Silca, an Italian manufacturer. While it possesses a yellow metallic hue, it is not made of gold. The item is an everyday utilitarian object used for lock and key systems. Its appearance mimics yellow gold due to the high copper and zinc content of the brass alloy used in its manufacture.
Key Features
Characteristic 'SILCA' branding with its distinctive square-grid texture on the bow (head). Rectangular blade with milled grooves intended for pin-tumbler lock compatibility.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow brass with a textured/grid head pattern and a semi-matte finish on the blade. High-friction areas show characteristic metallic sheen.
Hallmarks & Stamps
'SILCA' logo stamped on the head. No precious metal hallmarks (e.g., 585, 750, 14K) are present.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 2 inches (50mm) in length, standard door key profile.
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Standard circular keychain hole located at the top of the key head.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; single-piece die-cut construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped from a sheet of brass alloy; precision-milled grooves for specific cylinder profiles.
Authentication Indicators
Absence of hallmarks; metallic luster typical of industrial brass; 'SILCA' manufacturer mark which is universal for non-precious metal keys.
Origin & Maker
Italy; Silca (Società Italiana Lavorazione Chiavi e Affini), a major manufacturer of key blanks.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th to 21st Century)
Age Estimate
Likely produced within the last 1-15 years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the industrial standard for physical security and access control in the modern era.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Shows minimal wear on the blade; the 'teeth' have not been cut, indicating it is likely an uncut blank or an uncoded cylinder key.
Value Estimate
Melt value: Negligible (less than $0.05 USD). Retail value: $2.00 - $5.00 for the blank and service.
Care & Maintenance
Does not require precious metal care. Keep dry to prevent oxidation (patina/tarnish). Standard metal cleaners can restore the luster if it dulls.
Similar Items
Titanium or steel key blanks; decorative gold-plated 'Key to the City' souvenirs which, unlike this item, may have a thin layer of actual gold.
Interesting Facts
Silca is one of the world's leading manufacturers of key blanks and key-cutting machines, based in Vittorio Veneto, Italy. Many people mistake the polished brass of a new key for gold due to the similar refractive index and color.