7113.20 - Of base metal clad with precious metal:

This HTS category, 7113.20, specifically addresses articles of jewelry and parts thereof, where the base metal is clad with precious metal. This means the primary structural material is a base metal (such as copper, nickel, or zinc alloys), which has been covered or coated with a layer of precious metal (like gold, silver, or platinum) to provide a precious metal appearance or inherent value. The category encompasses a wide range of finished jewelry items and components.

To distinguish this category from its sibling, "Of precious metal whether or not plated or clad with precious metal," it is crucial to note the foundational material. Category 7113.10 deals with articles where the precious metal is the principal component or constitutes a significant portion of the material. In contrast, 7113.20 focuses on items where the precious metal serves as a cladding or covering over a base metal, indicating a different material composition and value proposition.

Underneath this heading, subcategories are defined to further refine the classification. The category "Rope, curb, cable, chain and similar articles produced in continuous lengths..." (7113.20.10.00) covers unfinished chain or stringing materials suitable for use in manufacturing jewelry. The subsequent "Other" subcategory is intended for all other finished jewelry items and parts thereof that do not fall into the continuous length category, encompassing a broad spectrum of wearable adornments and their constituent parts made from base metal clad with precious metal.