14K Yellow Gold Earring Post with Notch
Jewelry Component (Earring Post) · Yellow Gold; a classic alloy typically consisting of gold, copper, and silver to maintain strength in thin gauges.
Purity: 14K (585 fine gold), containing 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% alloy metals for durability.
Type
Jewelry Component (Earring Post)
Purity
14K (585 fine gold), containing 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% alloy metals for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; a classic alloy typically consisting of gold, copper, and silver to maintain strength in thin gauges.
Weight
0.1 to 0.2 grams; extremely light as it is a single finding component rather than a complete piece of jewelry.
Description
A functional 14K yellow gold earring post featuring a rounded tip and a distinct safety notch designed to secure an earring back in place. This piece serves as the primary attachment mechanism for stud or drop earrings.
Key Features
Precision safety notch near the terminal end, rounded comfort tip, and consistent cylindrical gauge for standard ear piercings.
Color & Finish
Light yellow gold hue with a high-polish reflective surface; showing some surface texture from wear and potential handling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the current view; stamps are typically located on the earring's friction nut (butterfly back) or the earring base rather than the post itself.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard length of approximately 9mm to 11mm; gauge thickness of roughly 0.8mm (20 gauge).
Gemstones & Inlays
None; this is a solid metal structural component.
Clasp & Closure
Nicthed post design intended for use with a friction butterfly back or 'earned' nut closure.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; single solid wire construction with a safety notch near the tip.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-drawn wire with a mechanically stamped notch and tumbled finish for a smooth, burr-free surface.
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency with 14K yellow gold alloys; presence of a standard safety notch which is rare in base-metal 'costume' jewelry of lower quality.
Origin & Maker
Commercial jewelry findings manufacturer; likely mass-produced for the retail jewelry market.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present); the precision of the notch and uniform cylindrical shape suggest modern machine-wire manufacturing.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured within the last 10-20 years based on the standard notch configuration.
Cultural Significance
Represents the standard for fine jewelry functional design in Western piercing traditions.
Condition Notes
Good condition; the post remains straight with no significant bending, though the surface shows micro-scratches consistent with use.
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value based on gold weight, approximately $5-$12 USD depending on the current spot price of gold.
Care & Maintenance
Clean regularly with isopropyl alcohol to maintain hygiene; avoid bending during storage to prevent metal fatigue.
Similar Items
Threaded earring posts (for screw-backs), 18K gold posts (softer/richer color), or surgical steel hypoallergenic posts.
Interesting Facts
Earring posts are specifically alloyed to be harder than the rest of a jewelry piece to prevent bending during daily insertion and removal.