Vintage Industrial 14K Yellow Gold Perforated Box Clasp Component
Jewelry Component / Box Clasp · Yellow Gold; a standard alloy likely containing copper and silver to achieve its traditional warm hue.
Purity: 14K (58.5% gold content); the item appears to be solid 14-karat gold based on the surface wear and color consistency.
Type
Jewelry Component / Box Clasp
Purity
14K (58.5% gold content); the item appears to be solid 14-karat gold based on the surface wear and color consistency.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; a standard alloy likely containing copper and silver to achieve its traditional warm hue.
Weight
3 to 5 grams; the item's hollow construction for mechanical function limits its total mass despite its size.
Description
This is a substantial gold jewelry component, specifically the female housing of a heavy-duty box clasp. It features a unique industrial aesthetic with clean cylindrical lines and a series of drilled ventilation or decorative ports along the sides. The finish is professional and architectural, intended for high-end custom gold work.
Key Features
Distinctive perforated side walls and a recessed rectangular mouth designed to accept a sprung gold tongue; heavy-wall construction indicates luxury tiering.
Color & Finish
Olive-yellow tone with a brushed/satin finish; the surface shows organic patination and dark spotting suggestive of oxidation or chemical contact.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the provided view; typically located on the tongue or internal floor of the clasp mechanism.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 20mm in length and 8mm in width; considered a large-sized clasp for multi-strand necklaces or heavy bracelets.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; the design is strictly functional and industrial with repetitive circular perforations along the edges.
Clasp & Closure
Tongue-and-groove box clasp; features side-wall perforations and a protruding lever for mechanical engagement.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; this is a terminal component designed to be soldered to chain ends or integrated into a custom link structure.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-milled or cast with hand-finished edges; the internal track for the tongue is cleanly squared, indicating high-quality tool-and-die work.
Authentication Indicators
The color consistency in the shadows and across the surface suggests solid alloy rather than plating; the crispness of the machined holes is consistent with fine gold work.
Origin & Maker
Likely European or American bench-made; the precision of the perforations suggests a high-quality manufacturing atelier.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to Retro (1950s-1970s); characterized by its geometric, machine-like aesthetic and substantial gold weight.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980; based on the mechanical design and the specific texture of the surface wear.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war shift toward bold, chunky gold jewelry that emphasized structural integrity and visible mechanical elements as part of the design.
Condition Notes
Good; showing superficial surface scratches and distinct dark tarnish spots. The structure remains undeformed with no thinning at the stress points.
Value Estimate
Valued primarily at its gold melt weight plus a 20-30% premium for its utility as a replacement part for vintage jewelry restoration.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap; professional ultrasonic cleaning is safe for this solid gold item to remove internal debris.
Similar Items
Standard 14K lobster claws (lighter/cheaper), 18K designer box clasps (more ornate), or gold-filled costume clasps (showing base metal wear).
Interesting Facts
Box clasps of this size were often used for triple-strand pearl necklaces or wide 'brick' style gold bracelets common in mid-century luxury fashion.