The Midas Touch Collection
Gold leaf is a decorative material that has been used for thousands of years. It is commonly seen on picture frames, sculptures, used in architecture and on furniture. The torch on the Statue of Liberty is covered in 24k gold leaf, as are several state capital domes. Illuminated manuscripts and religious iconography also make use of gold leaf. It can be used to decorate just about any surface.
The actual gold leaf is gold that has been hammered into thin sheets by a process known as “goldbeating” for use in gilding. It is so thin that when holding it up to a bright light, the light can be seen through it. Blowing on a gold leaf sheet will disturb it, and touching it with a finger will destroy it. Because of its thinness, a sheet of gold leaf rubbed between your hands will virtually disappear, leaving only a slight sheen.
Gold leaf is available in a wide variety of karats and shades. Our yellow gold butterflies are gilded with 22k gold leaf, containing approximately 91.7% gold, and our white gold butterflies are gilded with 6k gold leaf, containing 25% gold and 75% silver.
The procedure of “gilding” an object takes patience and experience. To simplify, one must first “size” or prepare the surface by cleaning and then applying a primer with adhesive like gilding sizer….allow to dry…. thenapply the paper thin sheets of gold leaf to cover the desired surfaces. Next, press the leaf sheets on the surface and brush over it with a gilding brush and let cure for 2-3 days.
Perfecting the process of applying gold leaf to surfaces is an art form all by itself. With dedicated practice, time, and the right gilding techniques, one can perfect this skill. It takes a seasoned artisan to achieve the desired elegance and beauty that can be created with “gilding” and to eventually be able to transform ordinary objects into beautiful masterpieces covered in gold.
