"gold tree"

[jhamner]

GOLD TREE

I can’t say I found this metal detecting, but I DID find it today at a local estate sale. The item is a tree–shaped object with acorns and leaves. Although it’s been chemically or otherwise darkened, if you rub the metal with a bit of silver polish, it becomes bright gold in color. That fact, plus the sheer weight of the object led me to believe that it just might be gold or gold vermeil. Sure enough, after testing it, it turned out to be 22 carat (to my amazement!)(P.S.--the lightened areas were already there as found--I chose not to polish the piece, but to leave it as original as possible)

At the base of the tree is a small gold plaque announcing a couple’s fiftieth anniversary along with a list of their children. It is dated 1865. In my many years as an antiques collector, I have never seen anything like this item!
An internet search came up empty also.

If you have seen one of these “trees” or know of the purpose or use of it, PLEASE let me know – I would LOVE to find out something about it.
P.P.S.--On the underneath sides of the branches are small holes--possibly put there for casting, or...possibly to attach something to it--another mystery!!!

Thanks! Jack.

 

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[bdsawyer]

Don't worry so much about the gold content. I wouldn't damage this piece in any way. I think it is a pretty significant find even if it's not all gold. I'm sure many collectors would love to have their hands on this. Just my two cents!

 

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[Argentium]

Please don't clip it ! What can you ascertain that way that you could not by leaving it intact ? The same tests that you would
subject the smaller piece to , can be applied to the entire piece .

 

[jhamner]

If the tree is hollow, it should be easy enough to check on the inside to see if it's plated or not without damaging the piece.

I agree, but because of the post you can't really get up inside it!

 

[jhamner]

Please don't clip it ! What can you ascertain that way that you could not by leaving it intact ? The same tests that you would
subject the smaller piece to , can be applied to the entire piece .

I'm afraid it's too late--BUT, I did find a portion of a leaf tucked away on the underside that had already been partially broken or clipped off. My "clip' makes the leaf appear to be whole again. I know this wasn't the right thing to do, but I truly believe if I didn't show it to someone, it would be extremely difficult for them to spot it at all.

 

[Msbeepbeep]

Congrats on finding quite a unique piece!