Gold-Plated Industrial Brass T-Nut Component
Hardware/Industrial Component · Yellow Gold (Electroplated); a standard thin layer of yellow gold alloy used for industrial surface finishing.
Purity: Gold-plated (EP/GP); the gold content is likely less than 0.1% of total weight as a decorative or anti-corrosive finish over a non-precious base metal.
Type
Hardware/Industrial Component
Purity
Gold-plated (EP/GP); the gold content is likely less than 0.1% of total weight as a decorative or anti-corrosive finish over a non-precious base metal.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Electroplated); a standard thin layer of yellow gold alloy used for industrial surface finishing.
Weight
2.0 - 4.0 grams (Estimated based on standard density of brass/steel hardware of this size).
Description
This item is a rectangular gold-plated nut, likely a T-nut or slide nut used in various assembly applications. While it possesses a high-luster gold exterior, its form and the visible oxidation around the center hole suggest a utilitarian function rather than a decorative one. The gold finish is applied to prevent corrosion of the base metal (likely brass or steel) and to ensure a high-quality aesthetic for high-end consumer goods or internal mechanical assemblies.
Key Features
Rectangular geometry, centrally located threaded hole, brushed surface texture, and tell-tale oxidation indicating it is gold-plated rather than solid gold.
Color & Finish
Vibrant yellow gold color with a horizontal brushed/satin finish; features distinct orange-toned oxidation or 'rust' spotting near the central bore indicating base metal exposure.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible; industrial hardware typically lacks precious metal hallmarks, as it is not jewelry or bullion.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: 10-12mm; Width: 5-6mm; Thickness: 2-3mm; central threaded bore approximately 3mm (M3 size).
Gemstones & Inlays
None; this is a functional industrial component.
Clasp & Closure
Internal threading; the item acts as a fastener or nut meant to accept a threaded bolt or screw.
Chain & Links
N/A; item is a solid rectangular block with a threaded aperture.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-milled construction with high-precision threading. The finish is applied via electroplating, resulting in a uniform but very thin surface coating.
Authentication Indicators
The orange/brown spotting near the hole is a major red flag for solid gold; solid gold does not rust or oxidize in this manner. The item's shape is consistent with mass-produced industrial fasteners rather than jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Generic industrial manufacture; likely produced by a mass-market hardware supplier for electronic or furniture assembly.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th century to present); standardized machine-cut hardware used in modern electronics, furniture, or machinery.
Age Estimate
Produced within the last 10-20 years based on the precision of the machine threading and the localized oxidation of the plating.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'disposable luxury' of modern manufacturing, where functional items are plated in gold to imply high value or specific technical performance.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant wear to the plating is visible near the central bore where friction from a screw has removed the gold layer, leading to visible tarnish/oxidation.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: Negligible ($0.01 - $0.05); Resale Value: Low, primarily as a replacement hardware part. This item is not a significant precious metal investment.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and friction, as the thin gold layer will easily rub off to reveal the base metal beneath. Keep in a dry environment to prevent further oxidation at the bore site.
Similar Items
Brass fasteners, anodized aluminum hardware, gold-plated jewelry findings (like rectangular sliders), or vintage watch movement parts.
Interesting Facts
In the electronics industry, gold plating is used on connectors and nuts because it is an excellent conductor and does not tarnish easily, ensuring a long-lasting electrical ground.