Pinchbeck

Pinchbeck refers to a form of brass, closely resembling gold, historically used as a substitute for the more expensive metal.

Part of speech: noun
Definition: Pinchbeck, named after its inventor Christopher Pinchbeck in the 18th century, is an alloy primarily composed of copper and zinc, designed to mimic the appearance of gold. Its creation provided an affordable alternative to gold in jewelry making, allowing wider access to gold-like ornaments without the high cost. Although not as valuable as gold, Pinchbeck was prized for its ability to imitate the precious metal so closely that it became a popular material in the manufacture of watches, jewelry, and decorative pieces during its peak. Today, vintage items made from Pinchbeck are sought after by collectors for their historical value and unique place in the history of jewelry making.