Non-Precious Industrial Brass or Nickel-Plated Lamp Socket Component
Electrical Hardware / Lighting Fixture Part · N/A - Base Metal. Appears to be aged brass or a plated ferrous metal.
Purity: None (0%). This item is not gold; it is a base metal alloy such as brass, steel, or aluminum.
Type
Electrical Hardware / Lighting Fixture Part
Purity
None (0%). This item is not gold; it is a base metal alloy such as brass, steel, or aluminum.
Gold Type
N/A - Base Metal. Appears to be aged brass or a plated ferrous metal.
Weight
15 to 30 grams depending on alloy density.
Description
An industrial electrical component, specifically a bayonet-mount lamp socket or spark plug connector shell. It features a threaded exterior for mounting and a J-shaped locking groove for secure electrical connection.
Key Features
Machine threading, knurled thumb-grip collar, and a bayonet locking notch.
Color & Finish
Dull metallic grey/silver with areas of yellowish-brown oxidation. The finish is industrial, showing machining grooves and significant surface tarnish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible that indicate precious metal content. Likely contains patent numbers or manufacture codes under the tarnish.
Dimensions Estimate
Height: 25-35mm; Diameter: 20-25mm (Standard small light socket scale).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item is purely functional industrial hardware.
Clasp & Closure
Bayonet-style J-slot at the top and threading on the main body for mechanical assembly.
Chain & Links
N/A. Features mechanical threading and a knurled grip ring.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-lathed and stamped. Functional industrial production with no artistic decorative elements.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: Significant dullness, mechanical threading, and lack of luster indicate this is industrial scrap metal, not gold.
Origin & Maker
Unknown industrial manufacturer; likely a generic electrical component supplier.
Era & Period
Modern Industrial (Mid-20th Century to Present).
Age Estimate
20-50 years based on the heavy oxidation and mechanical design.
Cultural Significance
Utility and electrification; represents mass-produced industrial hardware of the 20th century.
Condition Notes
Poor/Heavily Worn. Significant oxidation, surface pitting, and environmental grime. Not suitable for jewelry or investment purposes.
Value Estimate
Zero (Intrinsically worthless). Only retains local scrap metal value for brass or steel.
Care & Maintenance
Requires heavy degreasing and brass polish if intended for repurposing; otherwise, it is industrial waste.
Similar Items
Often confused with brass pipe fittings or vintage automotive electrical connectors.
Interesting Facts
Items like this are often mistaken for precious metals when found in soil due to brass's yellow color when polished, though this example is clearly oxidized.