Pinchbeck is a form ofbrass, analloy ofcopper andzinc mixed in proportions such that it closely resemblesgold in appearance. It was invented in the early-18th century byChristopher Pinchbeck (died 1732), a London clock-and watch-maker.[1] Since gold was only sold in 18-carat quality at that time, the development of pinchbeck allowed ordinary people to buy gold-"effect" jewellery on a budget. The inventor allegedly made pinchbeck jewellery clearly labelled as such. Pinchbeck jewellery was used for things likestagecoaches where there was a risk oftheft. The original pinchbeck ware was made by Christopher Pinchbeck and his descendants until the 1830s.[1] Later dishonest jewellers passed pinchbeck off as gold; over the years the name came to connotate a cheap and tawdry imitation of gold.[2] Today, depending on the dealer, "Pinchbeck" can mean original Pinchbeck or any gilt metal.[1]
Pinchbeck fell out of favor[3]in the second half of the 19th century after England legalised low-carat gold in 1854.[4]
Pinchbeck is typically composed of copper and zinc in ratios of 89% copper to 11% zinc; or 93% copper to 7% zinc.[5]
In 1854, the legalization of low-carat gold erased the price advantage that pinchbeck enjoyed, and it fell out of favor.
In England, before 1854, 'gold' meant high karat gold — 18 karat or better. In that year, 15, 12, and 9 karat gold were legally recognized [...].
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