Weathered Gold-Tone Rectangular Plaque or Locket
Plaque / Medallion (Potentially a damaged rectangular pendant or locket fragment) · Yellow Gold (Low-quality alloy or plating)
Purity: Indeterminate; color is inconsistent with high-karat gold. Likely brass-based with gold-wash or low-karat plating.
Type
Plaque / Medallion (Potentially a damaged rectangular pendant or locket fragment)
Purity
Indeterminate; color is inconsistent with high-karat gold. Likely brass-based with gold-wash or low-karat plating.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Low-quality alloy or plating)
Weight
5 - 8 grams (estimated based on thickness and dimensions)
Description
A rectangular, flat gold-colored metal piece featuring heavy surface abrasions and a distinct separation or seam at the lower edge. The item lacks the luster and saturation of high-karat gold, suggesting it is a costume jewelry element or a plated brass token.
Key Features
Rectangular shape, flat profile, visible horizontal seam near the base, and extensive multi-directional scratching.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow-tan with significant scratches and patina. The surface shows a heavily scuffed, non-uniform finish indicating a base metal substrate.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in current view. Hallmarks may have been located on a missing bale or the reverse side.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 20mm x 15mm; 2mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None present.
Clasp & Closure
Absent; no visible bail or attachment point for a chain.
Chain & Links
N/A; standalone rectangular piece.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-cut rectangular blank. The edges appear roughly finished, and the separation at the bottom suggests a laminate or two-part construction.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags: The grayish-tan undertones and lack of vibrant yellow suggest it is not solid gold. Surface wear reveals a lack of depth in the gold color.
Origin & Maker
Unknown; likely a mass-produced jewelry component or token.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (Industrial/Commercial production)
Age Estimate
Late 20th century (c. 1970 - 1990) based on wear patterns and flat-plate design.
Cultural Significance
Utility-focused; likely used as a blank for engraving or as a component of a larger personal accessory.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant surface scratching, edge wear, and possible structural separation at the bottom. Lacks professional polish.
Value Estimate
Negligible/Scrap Value. Likely below $5 USD unless confirmed to be solid gold via XRF testing.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals as they will likely strip the remaining thin gold layer from the base metal.
Similar Items
Engravable ID tags, gold-filled locket covers, or jeweler's brass blanks.
Interesting Facts
Items of this shape are often 'gold-filled' or 'rolled gold,' which involves heat-bonding a layer of gold to a base metal like brass to provide durability.