Vintage Gold-Filled Link Bracelet Clasp Detail
Decorative Art / Jewelry component (Bracelet Clasp) • Mass-produced jewelry; maker's mark partially visible but unclear (potentially a HRE or similar initials)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Costume Jewelry / Retro-Modern
Medium & Technique
12K Gold Filled (GF) over a base metal (likely brass). Manufactured using industrial stamping and mechanical assembly.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 10-15mm in length (clasp only); rectangular mechanical format
Subject Description
A functional fold-over clasp for a link bracelet featuring an textured 'bark' or stippled finish. The hallmark indicates the metal composition.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; significant surface wear and oxidation visible on the texture
Estimated Market Value
$10 - $35 USD (based on current scrap or vintage costume jewelry market)
Auction Estimate
$20 - $50 USD (low-reserve or as part of a lot)
Provenance History
Likely a consumer purchase from a mid-market department store; hallmarks common in North American production (US/Canada)
Art Historical Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the post-war era through gold-filling technology, allowing working-class consumers to own 'gold' aesthetic jewelry.
Notable Features
Features the hallmark '1/20 12K GF', indicating that 1/20th of the item's total weight is 12-karat gold bonded to the surface.
Condition Issues
Visible tarnish, accumulation of grime in the texture, surface scratches, and potential wear-through of the gold layer (plating loss).
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a micro-fiber cloth; avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasound cleaners which can damage old gold-filled layers.