Georgian pinchbeck brooch or buckle
Georgian pinchbeck brooch or buckle
6847
An ornate Georgian pinchbeck brooch or buckle with mother of pearl and cut steel plaque, circa 1800.
Pinchbeck is a type of alloy invented in the early 18th century by Christopher Pinchbeck, an English watchmaker. Composed primarily of copper and zinc, it closely resembles gold in appearance, making it a popular substitute in inexpensive jewellery and decorative objects. Pinchbeck was especially valued during a time when gold was heavily taxed and restricted to the upper class.
Unlike gold-plated items, Pinchbeck does not easily tarnish and retains its bright, golden lustre. Its popularity declined in the 19th century with the rise of cheaper electroplating techniques, but it remains a historically significant example of early imitation gold alloys.
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