Gold-Plated Industrial Contact Plate or Component
Industrial Scrap / Electronic Gold-Plated Component · Yellow Gold plating; an electrolytic deposition of gold coating used for conductivity and corrosion resistance.
Purity: Non-solid; gold-plated. Purity of plating is likely 18K-24K over base metal (typically copper, brass, or nickel).
Type
Industrial Scrap / Electronic Gold-Plated Component
Purity
Non-solid; gold-plated. Purity of plating is likely 18K-24K over base metal (typically copper, brass, or nickel).
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating; an electrolytic deposition of gold coating used for conductivity and corrosion resistance.
Weight
Estimated total weight 0.5 to 1.5 grams; gold content is negligible (measured in microns of thickness).
Description
A gold-plated industrial component, possibly a contact plate or shim. The item features a stepped rectangular profile with a central circular punch-out and several embossed dimples likely intended as mechanical registration points or contact surfaces. While it displays a gold color, its form and lack of stamps suggest it is an industrial part rather than a decorative gold item.
Key Features
Stepped geometry, internal mounting hole, repeating embossed contact points, and reflective gold-colored surface coating.
Color & Finish
Yellow gold tone with a semi-matte to satin industrial finish; features stamped indentations and a central aperture.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No precious metal purity hallmarks visible. Presence of mechanical dimples and a central hole indicate functional manufacturing rather than jewelry branding.
Dimensions Estimate
Small scale, approximately 10mm x 12mm; thickness estimated at 0.3mm (sheet gauge).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item is purely functional/industrial.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; appears to be a press-fit or soldered component for an electronic or mechanical assembly.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; flat sheet construction with stamped relief features (bosses).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped from a flat metal ribbon; plating is likely applied via electro-plating (rack or barrel plating process).
Authentication Indicators
The lack of official hallmarks (like 14K, 585) and the mechanical nature of the design are red flags for solid gold. The dull edges suggest a base metal core.
Origin & Maker
Unknown; likely an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) component for the telecommunications, automotive, or computing industry.
Era & Period
Modern Industrial (late 20th century to present); consistent with mass-produced electronic or electromechanical hardware.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day; manufacturing techniques suggest modern high-speed stamping and plating.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'hidden gold' of the digital age, where gold serves as a vital industrial resource rather than a symbol of wealth or status.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; shows signs of mechanical stress, slight deformation on the upper tabs, and surface scuffing consistent with salvage or wear.
Value Estimate
Intrinsic value is extremely low (less than $0.10 USD). Value is primarily as 'e-waste' scrap when processed in large quantities (kilograms).
Care & Maintenance
Not intended for maintenance; in a recycling context, these are collected in bulk for chemical stripping of the gold plating.
Similar Items
Gold-plated CPU pins, SIM card contacts, and high-end audio connectors.
Interesting Facts
Gold is used in electronics not for its beauty, but because it is an excellent conductor that never tarnishes, ensuring a perfect connection for the life of the device.