Why is 24K gold-plated hardware on vintage items more yellow than on new hardware?

The more pronounced yellow color on vintage hardware is influenced by several factors:

• Copper’s Natural Color:
  The 24K gold-plated hardware is mostly copper-based. Copper has a natural reddish-brown color with a warm yellowish hue. This inherent color can enhance the yellow appearance of the gold plating, especially as it ages.

• Oxidation of Copper:
  Over time, the copper base can undergo oxidation, which can subtly alter the appearance of the gold plating, making it appear warmer and more yellow.

• Thicker Gold Plating:
  Vintage items often had thicker layers of gold plating (more microns), which can enhance the rich yellow color of the 24K gold. Modern Chanel bags are all gold-plated as well, but they use thinner layers and zinc alloy or cheaper steel instead of copper-based metal to reduce costs, resulting in a less vibrant yellow hue. (you know they need to make ends meet lol)

• Aging and Patina:
  The aging process leads to the development of a patina on both the gold plating and the underlying copper, enhancing the depth and warmth of the yellow color to a deeper orange color sometimes.