What does the cryptic crossword clue "Nick by stream to get something resembling gold (9)" mean?

The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). PINCH (synonym="to steal, nick") + BECK (synonym="a stream") = PINCHBECK The answer is PINCHBECK.

Nick by stream to get something resembling gold (9)

Guardian Cryptic #29546 | 22 Across | 2024-11-21 flower