How to Identify Pinchbeck Jewelry

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.
Pinchbeck jewelry was popular in the eighteenth century as a suitable substitute for gold

Pinchbeck, also referred to as "Pinch," was created in the seventeenth century by Christopher Pinchbeck. Pinchbeck is an alloy--a mixture of copper and zinc--that was used extensively in the art of jewelry making as an inexpensive, but appealing gold substitute. By the mid-nineteenth century, however, the use of Pinchbeck diminished greatly due to the legalization of 9 karat gold. Identifying Pinchbeck is a tricky process unless you know a few specific facts about the piece you are trying to identify.

Advertisement

Step 1

Determine the age of the jewelry. If the piece of jewelry in question was produced prior to 1840, then it could be pinchbeck. Pinchbeck was rarely used after the mid-nineteenth century.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Determine the how the piece was used. Pinchbeck was used primarily for mourning or sentimental pieces of jewelry, such as lockets, broaches and frames for cameos. If possible, ask the owner if they know any history about the piece of jewelry. Many mourning pieces were made to memorialize the passing of a loved one. If the piece is determined to be mourning or sentimental jewelry and was produced before 1840, it could be pinchbeck.

Step 3

Examine the finish. Pinchbeck resembles gold in normal light, but when held up and examined closely in natural light, it gives off a coppery glow. Also, because of its alloy properties, a piece of pinchbeck will show signs of wear and tear, such as flakes, tarnish, greening or dents.

Tip

Estate sales and antique shops that handle jewelry are good places to look for pinchbeck.

Locate a book on Pinchbeck jewelry and take it with you when you are searching for it.

Gilt and rolled gold are often mistaken for Pinchbeck. Gilt is generally brighter than Pinchbeck, while rolled gold has a more muted sheen.

Video of the Day

Advertisement

references & resources