Brass Alloy Silca Pattern Cylinder Key (Gold-Tone)
Key (Hardware) · Yellow Brass (Copper-Zinc Alloy)
Purity: 0K - Non-gold. This item is a base metal brass alloy with no precious metal content.
Type
Key (Hardware)
Purity
0K - Non-gold. This item is a base metal brass alloy with no precious metal content.
Gold Type
Yellow Brass (Copper-Zinc Alloy)
Weight
8 - 12 grams
Description
Standard commercial cylinder key blank produced by Silca. While it shares a similar color profile to low-karat yellow gold due to its high zinc-brass composition, it is a functional utilitarian object designed for security and lock operation rather than jewelry or investment.
Key Features
Proprietary Silca cross-hatch pattern on the bow, specific bitting cuts for a tumbler system, and industrial stamping.
Color & Finish
Pale yellow metallic with a cross-hatch textured (knurled) head and satin-finish blade. Surface shows minor oxidation and 'brassiness' rather than the rich luster of solid gold.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with 'SILCA' brand logo and their specific geometric trademark on the head. No purity marks (14K, 18K, 750) are present because the item is not gold.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: 55-60mm; Head width: 22-25mm; Blade thickness: 2.5mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Standard circular keychain hole (approx. 5mm diameter)
Chain & Links
Not applicable; key blade features machine-cut bitting and side grooves for a pin-tumbler lock.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision industrial manufacturing: stamped from flat brass sheet stock followed by mechanical milling for the side grooves and key-cutting to specific lock bitting.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for gold authentication: Presence of industrial branding (Silca), lack of purity hallmarks, visible tool marks from hardware milling, and the specific 'yellow-green' tint of brass versus the 'deep-rich' warmth of gold.
Origin & Maker
Italy (Silca S.p.A.), a world leader in key blanks and key-cutting machines.
Era & Period
Modern / Contemporary (late 20th century to present)
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured within the last 20 years based on logo design and standard wear.
Cultural Significance
Represents modern industrial security and the standardization of locksmithing technology globally.
Condition Notes
Good / Functional. Minor surface scratches and abrasions on the blade from insertion into a lock cylinder. Some tarnishing consistent with brass oxidation.
Value Estimate
Melt value: Negligible ($0.05 - $0.10 based on scrap brass prices). Retail replacement: $2.00 - $5.00 for a duplicate key.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild detergent or metal polish to remove oxidation. Keep dry to prevent the formation of verdigris (green corrosion). Not for ultrasonic or jewelry cleaning.
Similar Items
Novelty 14K gold keys (often gifted for 21st birthdays), or gold-plated commemorative keys for 'Keys to the City.'
Interesting Facts
High-quality keys are made of brass because it is self-lubricating and softer than the internal steel pins of a lock, meaning the key wears down before the expensive lock mechanism does.