Brass or Gold-Plated Metal Electrical Terminal Lug
Industrial Hardware / Electrical Connector (not jewelry) · Brass alloy or imitation gold-tone plating over base metal.
Purity: 0K / Non-precious. Appears to be brass or gold-colored base metal plating. Does not display the characteristics of solid gold.
Type
Industrial Hardware / Electrical Connector (not jewelry)
Purity
0K / Non-precious. Appears to be brass or gold-colored base metal plating. Does not display the characteristics of solid gold.
Gold Type
Brass alloy or imitation gold-tone plating over base metal.
Weight
0.5 to 1.5 grams. Very light, indicates thin base metal construction rather than dense gold.
Description
This is a functional electrical component, specifically a ring terminal used to connect a wire to a stud or screw. It is not a piece of jewelry or an investment gold item. The yellow hue is indicative of brass, which is used for its electrical conductivity and cost-effectiveness.
Key Features
Industrial crimp neck and circular ring eyelet. Fold marks at the top indicate it is meant for mechanical installation.
Color & Finish
Dull, pale yellow with significant surface oxidation, scratches, and uneven patina consistent with industrial brass.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible. Lack of purity stamps (like 14K or 585) strongly indicates this is not a gold item.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 15-20mm in length, likely a standard size for electrical wiring.
Gemstones & Inlays
None.
Clasp & Closure
Crimp-style neck designed to be crushed onto an electrical wire.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. Structural design is a flat ring for a screw/bolt and a neck for wire attachment.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped from a flat sheet of metal. Low precision, high-volume production.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flags: Lack of hallmarks, irregular shape for jewelry, presence of industrial crimp marks, and color consistent with oxidized brass rather than noble gold.
Origin & Maker
Mass-produced industrial hardware, likely of generic manufacturing origin.
Era & Period
Contemporary Industrial (late 20th century to present).
Age Estimate
Unknown; modern era. Visible oxidation suggests it has been stored in a non-climate controlled environment.
Cultural Significance
Represents modern industrial standardization in electrical engineering.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface marring, uneven color, and mechanical deformation at the crimp point.
Value Estimate
Negligible. Nominal scrap value of brass (pennies per pound). Zero gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
No value in maintenance; typically a disposable industrial part.
Similar Items
Brass washers, copper crimp connectors, or gold-plated audio jacks.
Interesting Facts
Brass is often mistaken for gold by novices due to its color, but it is vastly lighter and harder. It is an alloy of copper and zinc.