Yellow Gold-Plated Brass Flat Rectangular Pin Backing
Jewelry Component/Brooch Backing · Yellow Gold finish over base metal (apparent brass or nickel-silver alloy)
Purity: Likely Gold-Plated (Flash Plated/0.5-2 microns) or Gold Color Electropolished Base Metal; not solid gold
Type
Jewelry Component/Brooch Backing
Purity
Likely Gold-Plated (Flash Plated/0.5-2 microns) or Gold Color Electropolished Base Metal; not solid gold
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish over base metal (apparent brass or nickel-silver alloy)
Weight
3-5 grams including adhesive residue; low intrinsic precious metal weight
Description
A rectangular, flat-sheet gold-toned metal plate intended as a structural backing for a brooch or nameplate. The piece features a central tension clip and significant adhesive residue, suggesting it was once bonded to a decorative face, such as acrylic, wood, or a badge.
Key Features
Rectangular geometry, integrated central clip, irregular edge finish suggesting it was snapped from a larger sheet and hand-glued.
Color & Finish
High-polish yellow gold tone with significant surface scratching, pitting, and adhesive paper residue along the edges
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps or hallmarks; typical for low-cost mass-produced jewelry components
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 40mm in length, 15mm in width; standard medium brooch size
Gemstones & Inlays
None; surface displays white paper/foam adhesive remnants
Clasp & Closure
Integrated metal tension clip or bar; appears to be a basic slip-on or crimped fastener
Chain & Links
N/A; flat plate construction with simple rolled-over edges
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial stamping; machine-cut edges with post-production adhesive application. Low-precision finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold: irregular surface pitting, tool marks, lack of hallmarks, and the presence of industrial adhesive usually associated with costume materials.
Origin & Maker
Unknown mass-producer; likely industrial findings manufacturer for costume jewelry
Era & Period
Contemporary Industrial (Late 20th Century to Present)
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day; based on the modern adhesive type and stamping method
Cultural Significance
Represents the utilitarian side of the jewelry industry, focusing on functionality and cost-efficiency rather than precious metal investment.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair; significant scratching, adhesive debris, and visible tarnish spots suggesting base metal oxidation through the gold-colored coating.
Value Estimate
Minimal; primarily functional value. Negligible scrap value as it contains almost no recoverable gold content.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemicals and moisture; the thin plating is susceptible to wear and will expose the base metal core if polished aggressively.
Similar Items
Brass nameplate backings, base-metal brooch pins, gold-filled jewelry findings.
Interesting Facts
Items like this are often 'flash plated,' which means they are submerged in a gold bath for only seconds to provide a color-match to higher-end jewelry despite being made of common metals.