Richard, I have to agree. Guess I just didn't look closely enough. But even allowing for soft shadow effects, I still don't see any contrast between the bead and the vertical blade face around it. Whether you call it brass or gold, I'd think it would brighter than it appears.

ADDED: I just noticed that one of the OP's photos showing the gun from the back of the frame forward has a bright glint at the top of the front sight. Under direct illumination there is clearly a gold highlight. My uncertainty is resolved.

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David Wilson