Single 14K Yellow Gold Fold-Over Box Clasp Component
Jewelry Component / Clasp · Yellow Gold, likely alloyed with copper and silver to provide the necessary spring tension and hardness for a mechanical closure.
Purity: Estimated 14K (58.5% Gold content). This is a standard purity for functional jewelry components in North America and Europe, balancing durability with gold value.
Type
Jewelry Component / Clasp
Purity
Estimated 14K (58.5% Gold content). This is a standard purity for functional jewelry components in North America and Europe, balancing durability with gold value.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold, likely alloyed with copper and silver to provide the necessary spring tension and hardness for a mechanical closure.
Weight
0.3 to 0.7 grams. Small jewelry findings of this size are very lightweight; their value is primarily in weight-based scrap or replacement utility.
Description
A functional 14K yellow gold fold-over clasp, separated from its original jewelry piece. It features a rectangular hinged flap and a flat attachment base. The item shows a warm, aged gold color with some surface accumulation consistent with long-term use.
Key Features
Reinforced hinge pin and a pressure-fit snapping mechanism designed for high security on heavier wrist-wear.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow with a satin-to-matte patina. The surface shows significant oxidation and signs of wear, lacking the high-polish luster of a new piece.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the provided image. Typically, these are stamped '14K' or '585' on the underside of the tongue or the base of the fold-over arm.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 8mm to 12mm in length and 4mm to 6mm in width. Standard size for a medium-to-large bracelet or watch band attachment.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a purely functional mechanical component.
Clasp & Closure
Fold-over box clasp mechanism. It utilizes a hinged arm that snaps over a base plate to secure a watch or heavy bracelet.
Chain & Links
Not applicable, as the item is detached. The flattened base indicates it was likely soldered to a flat-link mesh or solid link bracelet.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped and die-struck construction. The hinge is likely hand-pinned. Functional but lacks high-end artisanal finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency is characteristic of 14K alloys; however, the lack of visible stamps and the dull surface are red flags that necessitate an acid or XRF test to rule out plated brass.
Origin & Maker
Likely mass-produced by a jewelry findings manufacturer in Italy or the United States. Generic design used by many commercial brands.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century. This style of clasp became ubiquitous in the 1970s and 1980s for gold watches and flat-link herringbone or brick-style bracelets.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured between 1980 and 2005 based on the hinge design and visible surface wear patterns.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift toward industrialized, high-efficiency jewelry production in the late 20th century, where standardized findings replaced hand-fabricated closures.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor condition. The item is detached from its original piece, appears slightly bent, and shows significant surface scratching and dirt. Hinge integrity is unknown.
Value Estimate
Primarily scrap value (melt value). At 0.5g and 14K, the melt value is approximately $20-25 USD depending on current spot prices. As a replacement part, it might retail for $50-70 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove skin oils. If confirmed solid gold, a professional ultrasonic cleaning and light polishing would restore the shine.
Similar Items
Lobster claws (more common for chains), box clasps with safety catches (more formal/expensive), and toggle clasps (decorative but less secure).
Interesting Facts
Fold-over clasps are often called 'watch clasps' because they provide a flush, snag-free profile that is ideal for garments and active wear.