Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Engraved Circular Pendant or Charm
Pendant / Charm · Yellow Gold alloy with classic warm tones, likely containing silver and copper.
Purity: Likely 14K (585) or 18K (750) Fineness; the image specifically shows a serial number or date stamp '510021' rather than a clear karat hallmark, but the luster suggests standard jewelry-grade solid gold.
Type
Pendant / Charm
Purity
Likely 14K (585) or 18K (750) Fineness; the image specifically shows a serial number or date stamp '510021' rather than a clear karat hallmark, but the luster suggests standard jewelry-grade solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold alloy with classic warm tones, likely containing silver and copper.
Weight
2.5 to 5.0 grams based on visible surface area and presumed standard thickness for a disc pendant.
Description
A solid yellow gold circular medallion featuring a distinctive concentric brushed finish. The piece acts as a canvas for a historical or inventory stamp, '510021', indicating it may have served as a commemorative token or a serialized luxury good component. The warm glow of the alloy suggests a high gold content and a life of frequent wear.
Key Features
Concentric satin finish, unique six-digit identification stamp, consistent depth of strike on characters, and a flat, utilitarian profile.
Color & Finish
Classic yellow gold with a circular brushed/satin finish; showing significant surface patina, micro-scratching from use, and light oxidation in crevices.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Hand-stamped or machine-struck numerical sequence '510021'. This may represent a serial number, a manufacturing date (May 10, 1921), or a specific design inventory code.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 15-20mm in diameter; standard size for a necklace pendant or large bracelet charm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible in this detail shot; the surface is plain engraved metal.
Clasp & Closure
Not visible; likely would have been attached via a jump ring or bail at the top of the disc.
Chain & Links
N/A; item is a flat disc/medallion structure with a smooth, unreeded edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Stamping is aligned with a slight manual tilt, suggesting a hand-fed machine process. The circular brushing is consistent across the radial plane.
Authentication Indicators
The depth and displacement of metal around the numbers are consistent with authentic hallmarking on solid precious metal rather than plating, which often flakes or chips around stamped edges.
Origin & Maker
Indeterminate; numerical stamps of this style are common in European assay systems or American private jeweler inventory systems.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (likely 1940s-1960s) or earlier if the stamp '21' indicates the year 1921. The font style suggests mid-century industrial stamping.
Age Estimate
Likely circa 1921-1960 based on the stamping style and the heavy, authentic surface wear.
Cultural Significance
Represents the tradition of personalized jewelry and 'monogram' culture where items were serialized for tracking or sentimental documentation.
Condition Notes
Good/Fair. Significant surface abrasions and 'pocket wear' indicate this was carried or worn daily. Surface lacks modern rhodium or high-polish treatments, showing honest age.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold weight (melt value). If 14K, typical value would be melt price plus a 20-30% premium for vintage character.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid machine buffing if you wish to preserve the historical '510021' stamp and the aged patina.
Similar Items
Cartier 'Love' collection serialized plates, vintage Tiffany & Co. zodiac charms, or industrial gold weight tokens.
Interesting Facts
Serialized gold items were often part of high-end corporate gifts or military recognition programs in the early 20th century.