Yellow Gold Scrap Rectangular Plate Fragment
Raw Gold / Scrap Metal Fragment · Yellow Gold Alloy
Purity: Indeterminate based on visual; likely 10K (41.7%) to 14K (58.5%) if genuine gold. Testing needed to confirm solid vs. plated status.
Type
Raw Gold / Scrap Metal Fragment
Purity
Indeterminate based on visual; likely 10K (41.7%) to 14K (58.5%) if genuine gold. Testing needed to confirm solid vs. plated status.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold Alloy
Weight
Estimated < 0.5 grams; typical for a small, thin industrial or decorative metal scrap piece.
Description
A small, rectangular metal fragment featuring a dull yellow hue and a distinct horizontal brushed texture. The item appears to be scrap, possibly a component from a nameplate, watch clasp reinforcement, or electronic shielding. It exhibits irregular sheared edges and translucent adhesive residue on the surface.
Key Features
Brushed surface texture, thin sheet gauge, rectangular geometry with a curved 'tab' or deformation on the left side.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow brassy tone with a brushed/satin directional finish; shows adhesive residue and jagged, irregular edges.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible; the piece appears to be a cut fragment or a component part rather than a finished commercial jewelry item with assay marks.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 10mm x 8mm; ultra-thin gauge (under 0.5mm thickness).
Gemstones & Inlays
None present; functional metal fragment.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; no closure mechanism present.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid sheet construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped and industrially brushed; lack of hand-finishing or refined edges suggests low-tier manufacturing intent.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags include the overly 'brassy' pale color and sharp, stamped edges which are common in gold-toned base metals (brass/bronze) rather than high-karat gold.
Origin & Maker
Unknown; likely a mass-produced component or industrial surplus.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern Industrial era.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured within the last 20-30 years based on the precise machine-brushed finish.
Cultural Significance
Represents the utilitarian use of metals in modern manufacturing and the 'scrap' phase of a metal's lifecycle.
Condition Notes
Poor Condition (Scrap Grade). Exhibits heavy mechanical damage, irregular cuts, and adhesive contamination.
Value Estimate
Negligible; if base metal, value is zero. If 14K gold, melt value is approximately $15-$25 depending on exact weight.
Care & Maintenance
Requires professional acid or XRF testing to determine metal value; store away from finished jewelry to avoid scratching.
Similar Items
Brass shim stock, gold-plated nameplate fragments, or 10K gold solder plates.
Interesting Facts
Industrial gold scrap is often collected from manufacturing floors or electronic waste and melted down in bulk to recover precious metal content.