Modern 14K White Gold Lobster Claw Clasp Jewelry Component
Jewelry (Component/Findings) · Generic Industrial Jewelry Manufacturer; lobster clasps of this type are produced globally by various findings manufacturers for the jewelry industry.
Pattern: Standard Lobster Claw Clasp; traditional pear-shaped design with a spring-loaded lever mechanism.
Type
Jewelry (Component/Findings)
Maker
Generic Industrial Jewelry Manufacturer; lobster clasps of this type are produced globally by various findings manufacturers for the jewelry industry.
Material
14K White Gold (indicated by the '585' stamp); composition typically includes 58.5% pure gold alloyed with white metals like nickel, palladium, or silver, often finished with a rhodium plating.
Dimensions
Estimated length 8mm to 12mm; weight is approximately 0.1 to 0.3 grams; considered a standard medium-sized clasp for necklaces or bracelets.
Description
A functional and ubiquitous jewelry finding, this lobster claw clasp is crafted from 14K white gold. It features a teardrop-shaped body with a mechanical spring trigger, ensuring a secure closure for fine jewelry. While utilitarian, its '585' hallmark elevates it from base metal or silver alternatives, marking it as a component for fine precious metal jewelry.
Key Features
585 Fineness mark; spring-actuated gate; integrated attachment loop; white gold alloy composition.
Material & Composition
14K White Gold (indicated by the '585' stamp); composition typically includes 58.5% pure gold alloyed with white metals like nickel, palladium, or silver, often finished with a rhodium plating.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish; likely rhodium-plated for additional whiteness and durability against tarnishing; undecorated minimalist design focused on utility.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '585' inside a rectangular cartouche on the trigger mechanism, which is the international hallmark for 14-karat gold purity.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured through die-striking and assembly; includes a small internal coiled steel spring for the trigger mechanism.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded lever action with a pivoting trigger; includes an integrated jump ring for attachment to a chain or jewelry piece.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the 'grip' is a small thumb-lever designed for manual operation to open the clasp hook.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality; uniform thickness and clean stamping; the gate aligns perfectly with the nose of the clasp, indicating good quality control in manufacturing.
Authentication Indicators
The '585' stamp is correctly positioned for this type of finding; the color and luster are consistent with rhodium-plated white gold; wear patterns on the jump ring indicate authentic metal-on-metal friction.
Origin & Manufacturing
Mass-produced; likely originating from major jewelry manufacturing hubs in Italy, USA, or China using automated precision machinery.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Era (Late 20th Century to Present); this specific style of lobster clasp became an industry standard after the 1970s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-Present; the crispness of the '585' laser or die stamp suggests modern production techniques.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift in jewelry toward security and ease-of-use; the 585 mark is the standard gold purity recognized throughout Europe and increasingly in North America.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent; the mechanism appears functional, the surface shows minor pocket-wear and light micro-scratches consistent with use on a worn piece of jewelry.
Value Estimate
$15 - $45 USD (Replacement retail value for the finding itself, largely based on gold weight and current spot price).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals that could strip rhodium plating; check the internal spring regularly for tension loss.
Similar Pieces
Spring Ring Clasp (circular, lighter weight); Box Clasp (decorative, hidden mechanism); Toggle Clasp (bar and ring, less secure).
Interesting Facts
The lobster clasp was patented in various forms in the early 20th century but did not replace the 'spring ring' as the primary jewelry fastener until the latter half of the century due to its superior strength.